Rufus Wilder Winston, Jr., 87, passed away on March 5, 2025 at his residence in Starkville, MS. He was born July 13, 1937 in Oktibbeha County, MS to the late Rufus Wilder, Sr. & Mary Estelle Winston.
He served in the US Navy and later worked at Borden Milk Plant as a lab technician until retirement. Upon retirement, he learned how to repair computers and continued this hobby until his passing. Additionally, he also prepared taxes and maintained bookkeeping for various businesses.
“Little Wilder” had a life-long love for the outdoors. When he wasn’t hunting or fishing, he could be found in the kitchen cooking all the family’s favorites.
While he enjoyed too many hobbies to list, his greatest love was for his wife and family.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Cecily, of Starkville, MS; daughters, Teresa Scott (Steve) of Brooksville, MS, Julie Jones (Tony) of Horn Lake, MS; grandchildren Caitlin Lyons of Caledonia, MS and Nick Forks of Prattville, AL; great grandchildren Easton Bigham and Emma Lyons; sisters Nel Slaughter (Bubby) and Mary Wilder Buchanan (Sam); brother David Winston (Martha).
The family gives special acknowledgement to all of the personal care assistants, caregivers at Gentiva Hospice & staff at King Cardiology & Associates who went above and beyond to provide the best care imaginable.
A private celebration of life is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that his giving spirit be celebrated with donations to www.starkvillestrong.org/donate
