Donald Ray Wilson was born on October 3rd, 1947, to
Pearlie and Mary Wilson in Paris, Texas. Donald spent the
majority of his childhood in Dallas, TX.

Donald completed his early education within the Dallas Independent
School District and graduated from Lincoln High School. Donald
attended Southern Methodist University prior to being drafted into the
United States Army. While serving in the military, Donald was
stationed in Vietnam and Germany, serving with the 101st Airborne
and the 94th Engineers. Donald concluded his military tenure as an E5
Sergeant.
After his military service, Donald explored different jobs like carpentry
and wrecker driving. His career as a wrecker driver was abruptly ended
by a serious injury that forced him to relearn how to walk. Despite this,
Donald showed incredible resilience, overcoming obstacles like cancer,
multiple strokes, and necrotizing fasciitis.
You'd never guess the challenges he faced because Donald always
prioritized others above himself. He made it his mission to either get
everyone in the room laughing or ensure they felt like they truly
belonged. Donald's authenticity brought a warmth and humor that lit
up any space, leaving behind a legacy of love and quick wit which was
cherished by all who knew him.
Donald was known for being the best-dressed man in the room, a
connoisseur of Crown Royal, and a lover of Cadillacs. He enjoyed
grilling, playing music, and watching sports. Along with making the
best greens and baking the tastiest ham, Donald had a hidden talent for
drawing. Despite suffering from severe arthritis in his hands, his ability
to create art was truly remarkable.
Donald cherished his family above all else and was preceded in death
by his parents, Pearlie and Mary Wilson; and his granddaughter,
Daumyneke Rollins.
Donald is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Carolyn; his
children, Tracy Ross (Craig), Michael Green, Darneshia Rollins
(Christopher), and De'Anna Lankford (Jordan); nine grandchildren,
five great-grandchildren
He will be forever remembered by his siblings, James Thomas (Sara),
Angela Johnson, Paula M. Wilson-Woods (Marvin); three nephews; a
niece; his cousins Mark, Robert, Debra, and Millard, as well as a host
of cherished in-laws and close family friends.