Donna Wilson

                                                                                                                        I AM DONNA 

Born on September 1, 1960, I was the youngest daughter of James and Eunice (Marquette) Tyler of Saint Louis, Missouri. Our mother instilled in my sisters (Yvonne, Tina and Sandra) and me the qualities of resilience, empathy, authenticity and the strength of being unapologetic. These qualities, coupled with my love and reverence for God, are the foundation for the person I became. 

As a teen, I was known for my precision on the drill team and my syncopated dance moves. After graduating from Northwest High School, at 17 years old, I began my life journey by joining the United States Army. As a newly enlisted Soldier enroute to basic training, I encountered an ordinary man sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. At that time, I received Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. While serving, I met and married Craig Thompson. We were blessed with a son, Donovan. 

Later I met the love of my life, Reverend Crawford R. Wilson. We were joined in holy matrimony on January 20, 1985. Together, Crawford and I built a strong and loving blended family. I had a mantra, “Don't mess with my man, my money or my kids!” And when needed, my physical posture said, “Try me if you want too!” 

For 40 years we diligently served in ministry. Our union has been a source of inspiration, stability and sanctuary, building a legacy of service in the Southern Illinois community. During those years, I believe I was a true conduit of faith. I enjoyed speaking at women's conferences encouraging sisters in Christ. I loved to sing at Church events and in community choirs. As often I could I shared my personal testimonies as evidence of what faith the size of a mustard seed could do. 

 I believed that true fulfillment is found in the act of giving, not in the things we accumulate. To me, generosity was never a sacrifice but a profound source of joy. I dedicated my life to serving others, standing firm in my values, and loving fiercely. This commitment to service extended beyond my community and into my country, where I proudly served in the United States Army & Army Reserves, receiving an Honorable Discharge in 2000 

Along the way, I earned an Associate of Science degree in Para-legal Studies from St. Louis Community College, then transferred to Southern Illinois University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Para-legal Studies and a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. I had a passion for seeking justice and fearlessly defending those who were marginalized. I brought this passion to my service for the State of Illinois. For 27 years, I worked for the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the Department of Corrections (IDOC). At IDOC I was a Youth Supervisor at the Illinois Youth Center in Harrisburg, IL, and a Resident Counselor at the Adult Transition Center in Carbondale. In the Child Protection division of DCFS I became a case worker then investigator and later was promoted to Child Protection Manager for the East Saint Louis Region. Later, I transitioned to the position of Southern Region Transition Manager, serving 32 counties. In my last years of service, I enjoyed acting as liaison between DCFS and the Illinois Youth Advisory Board, directly addressing the concerns of youth in care, and facilitating the annual Southern Region Youth Summit. 

I was a proud and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Gamma Kappa Omega Chapter for over 25 years, serving with a deep commitment to uplifting mankind. I never hesitated to fight for those who needed an ally and an advocate. 

I am joining my mother and father in eternity, along with a host of dear family members. I leave a lifetime of love for you, Crawford; and for our children: Shakita (Angelo) Blakely, Donovan (Mandy) Thompson, Cerra (Aaron) Goree, Christine (Clifford) Stallworth, Allonte (Kelsi) Brown, Crawford Clemons Wilson and Timothy Promise McCafferty, I leave the legacy of knowing that your mother’s love knew no bounds. My grandchildren, Tamir, Randall, Asyah and Isayah, ZiJohn, Preston, Autumn, Aaron and Joel, Janine, Benjamin, Aila and Cornel, a host of nieces and nephews, extended family, friends, sorority sisters, caregivers, and all whose lives I touched. I leave my love, strength, and legacy of service. Above all, I leave my prayers for your peace, tranquility, and a blessed life. 

I leave my final arrangement into the care of Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.