Chester Kenneth Wilson, 83, of Athens, Alabama, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Visitation will be held at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home, 322 US Hwy 31, Athens, AL, on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 12:00-1:45 p.m., with the service immediately following at 2:00 p.m. A private burial service will follow at Hesters Chapel Cemetery, in Lester, AL.
Born on August 12, 1941, in Portsmouth, Ohio, Ken lived a full and purposeful life defined by hard work and a quiet strength that left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Ken proudly served his country in the United States military from 1960 to 1964. After his service, he built a long and respected career as a mechanical engineer, working for Prestolite, Cutler Hammer, Martin Industries, Hon Industries, and Pan Osten until his retirement.
He shared 35 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Beverly Wilson, until her passing in 2019. In retirement, Ken found joy in the simple pleasures of life—building things with his hands, raising goats, showing racking horses, mowing the yard, and spending time with friends at the senior center where he loved playing cards.
But above all, Ken’s greatest joy came from being “Pawpaw” and watching his grandchildren grow and excel, especially in sports.
Ken is survived by his children: Mitzi (Donnie) Casebolt of Foley, AL; Felicia (Greg) Lambert of Athens, AL; Traci (Marty) Gaston of Athens, AL; Brad (Robin) Wilson of Iowa City, IA; and Sandra (Greg) Weatherford of Lester, AL. He is also survived by his brothers, Steve Wilson of Cookeville, TN, and Bob Wilson of Portsmouth, OH.
He leaves behind a legacy through his grandchildren: Donnie Jr., Brandon, Taylor, Jessica, Gregory, Jackson, April, Avery, Tucker, and Anslee; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Chester Wilson, and his beloved wife, Beverly.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation. The caring staff at Athens-Limestone Hospital provided wonderful support to Ken and his family during his final days. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the hospital team for their compassion and kindness.
Ken’s life was one of quiet dedication, love for family, and unwavering integrity. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
