Joel Wilson Sr.

Mr. Joel Wilson Sr. was born on Friday, June 14, 1940, in Camden, Alabama to Dan and Beatrice Wilson. He passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan. Age 85 years.

He accepted Christ at an early age at Holy Cross Lutheran and attended JE Hobbs School in Camden, Alabama. Joel moved to Lansing, Michigan in the late 1960’s and began working for Motor Wheel, retiring after 25 years. He went on to marry the love of his life Willie Ann on October 23, 1976 and shared 36 beautiful years.

Joel became a member of Friendship Baptist Church in the early 1970’s. He enjoyed attending church on Sundays and helping out where ever he was needed.

He was the humblest of them all. Whenever you seen him out, you were sure to be greeted with a fist bump. It did not matter who you were, this was just who he was. Joel enjoyed his daily Quality Dairy run for coffee, riding his bike, going for walks, and lounging in his backyard.

He leaves to cherish his memory children, Michelle (Kenneth) Mungin and Joel Wilson Jr. both of Lansing, Michigan; grandchildren, Arianna C. Wilson of Orion, Michigan and Joel Wilson III of Mount Pleasant, Michigan; sister, Diane Black of Camden, Alabama; brothers, Eliza (Francis) Wilson of Lansing, Michigan, Paul Wilson, and Bruce (Jeanette) Wilson both of Camden, Alabama; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Joel was preceded in death by his wife, Willie Ann Wilson; granddaughter, Jo’miya Ann Wilson; parents, Dan and Beatrice Wilson; brother, Dan Wilson Jr.; niece, Stephanie Partin; nephew, Paul Wilson Jr.; and brother – in – law, John Black.

The family would like to express special thanks to Reverend Dr. Jeffery Lang & Friendship House of Prayer Baptist Church; Reverend John, Ann Dear, & New Hope #2 Baptist Church; and Sonny Pea.