Paul Edward Wilson

Paul E. Wilson June 29, 1944 - April 22, 2025

Paul Edward Wilson, a devoted husband, a proud father, a veteran, and a friend to all who knew him, passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering dedication to his family and country.

Born in 1941, Paul lived a life filled with purpose and service. He bravely answered the call of duty and served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, where he exemplified courage, resilience, and honor. His service was a true reflection of the kind of man he was - selfless, dependable, and deeply committed to what he believed in.

Paul was a man of great warmth and deep-rooted values. As a loving husband, he stood as a pillar of strength and support, sharing a lifetime of memories with his beloved wife. As a father, he poured his heart into raising his daughter, Christine Leaphart, with tenderness, wisdom, and a steady hand. To Christine, he was not only a parent but a constant source of guidance and unconditional love.

Outside of his dedication to family and country, Paul found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a special love for fishing - a pastime that gave him peace, patience, and many quiet moments to reflect and enjoy nature. He loved to tinker with wood projects, watch his favorite television shows, and tell jokes to everyone he met. 

Saturdays in the fall were sacred to Paul, as he proudly cheered on his favorite team, the USC Gamecocks, with unmatched enthusiasm. Whether they were winning or losing, Paul stood by them with the loyalty that defined so much of who he was.

He was a lifelong member of Temple Baptist Church.

Paul is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jeanette Carol Douglas; daughter, Christine “Tina” Marie Leaphart (Shane); grandchildren, Garret A. Leaphart (Tallon), Mckenzie B. Corder (Cory), Spencer A. Leaphart, Brady M. Leaphart, and Eryn K. Leaphart; and two great grandchildren, Rowynn Grace Corder and Noah Kate Corder. He is also survived by his youngest brother, William T. Wilson, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Fennial Dennis Wilson; his mother, Annie Bell Kyall; his son, Christopher Lee Wilson; his older brother, F.D Wilson, Jr; and his older sisters, Barbara V. Holmes and Shirley W. Dean.

Visitation will be held Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 2:00-3:00 pm at Temple Baptist Church in Columbia, SC, with a funeral to follow at 3:00 pm. Military honors will be held at Fort Jackson at a later date for the immediate family members. Barr-Price Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel, is assisting the family.

Paul Wilson’s life was marked by integrity, humility, and heart. He leaves behind cherished memories, lessons that will never fade, and a family that will forever carry his spirit with them.

Rest in peace, Paul. Your love and light live on in all of us.

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