Samella “Sweetie” Wilson

Samella Wilson was born May, 23, 1932 in Dumas, Arkansas. She grew up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas with her parents, Sherman and Isadora Boyd, and eight siblings. As the youngest daughter, Samella was  nick-named, ‘Sweetie’, a name which aptly described her personality throughout her life. She accepted Christ as her Savior at an early age. It was during her early years, that Samella’s gift for cooking and gardening was nourished.

As a young woman, Samella moved to Gary, Indiana where she met and married David Wilson, Sr. She and David were married for over forty years and raised twelve children. Samella was a devoted wife and mother, and her greatest joy was caring for her family. Samella was a quiet and gentle woman, and was strong in her beliefs. She was stylish and confident. She was kind and caring to all she met, and was always willing to help others. She was an avid fisherman, gardener, and a great cook. Her passion for these hobbies was shared with her family and friends.

Samella was preceded in death by her husband, David Wilson, Sr.; her parents, Sherman and Isadora (Thomas) Boyd: brothers, Walter Boyd, L.C. Boyd, Sherman "Coot" Boyd, Jr., Jessie Boyd; sisters, Idabell "Fox" Pryor, Ellie "May" Reid, Annabell "Bell" Gordon, Elnora "Frisk" Ferris; and daughter Samella Jean Murphy.

On Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at her residence in O’Fallon, Missouri, God called the soul of His child, Samella (Boyd) Wilson to eternal rest. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Cleophis (Linda) Brown, Jr., Pauline Anderson, Shenetta Brown, David Wilson, Jr., Henry Wilson, Brenda (Kevin) Brewer, Andrea (Gentle) Cooley Jr., Belinda (Walter) Glenn, Andre (Karen) Wilson, Lee Wilson and Lisa (Clyde) Briggs; thirty-four grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.