On April 18, 2024, Harold Van Wilson took his final peaceful breath at the age of 73 surrounded by his family. Van was born on November 29, 1950, in Florence, Alabama. He graduated from Mars Hill Bible School in 1969 as a member of the greatest class ever. Van served six years in the Army Reserves. Van was a successful painting contractor at Wilson Painting Company which he co-owned with his father for over 30 years. He was a past president of the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA).
He loved to reminisce of his days coaching the Eagles softball team at Brooks Dixie Youth. He made sure everyone got to play and have fun although his teams got “mass-a-creed” as he would call it even after all the “blood, sweat, and tears”. He was generous to buy team meals and hand out $20 to those in need. Van always had a story to tell or a quick piece of advice to share such as “Always live east of where you work.” Above all, he loved unconditionally and without judgement. He cared about those that society had cast aside and always took time to listen to their stories. He was preceded in death by his parents Elmo and Frances Stutts Wilson, wife’s parents James H and Coriene McFall Riedout, nephew Chace Beck, and special friend Ronnie Willis.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years Denise Riedout Wilson. They had three children: Vanessa Sides (Dan), Destin Gargis (Matt), and Hank Wilson (Natalie). He was the beloved Poppy to Gracie and Mattie Gargis, and Allie and Eli Wilson. He was the beloved Granddaddy Van to his grandson Canaan Sides (Kayla) Ty and Kennedy. He is also survived by brothers Dr. Charles Wilson (Betty), David Wilson (Glenna); sisters-in-law Kay Willey, Terese Irons (Dr. Ricky Irons), Cindy Mitchell (Eddie); brother-in-law David Terrell. He is also survived by his much loved FavNephews, FavNieces, cousins, and many special lifelong friends.
Even in death he was generous, as he donated his body to medical education/research at the Anatomical Donor Program at UAB. The family would like to thank Dr. McFall, Dr. Felix Morris, Dr. Brody, Dr. Pearlman and the staff at Singing River Cancer Center as well as Amedisys Hospice Care, especially nurses Lana and Stephanie.
A gathering of friends and family will be held at a later date.
Van was always an advocate for acceptance of those with mental illness and addiction, so you can honor his memory by making donations to NAMI Shoals (National Alliance on Mental Illness) PO BOX 3226 Florence, Alabama 35630 Phone 256-284-2282….or you can just give a $20 bill to someone who needs it.
