AVA – Terry Eugene Wilson, 72, of Ava, passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at his home in Ava.

Terry was born in Birch Tree, Missouri, on May 14, 1953, the son of Eugene and Erma Wilson. He married Sue Ann Stewart on May 2, 1976, in Murphysboro, IL, and she preceded him in death in 2013. He married Mary Jane Hunt on August 12, 2017.

Terry is survived by his wife, Mary Jane of Ava; brother, Jerry (Karen) Wilson of Ava; daughter, Brooke (Lance) Crombar of Carbondale; son, Jeffrey (Jill) Wilson of Murphysboro; stepchildren, Kathy Patterson of Ava, Tabitha (Charles) Colvis of Chester, and Dane (Hope) Patterson of Steeleville; grandchildren, Kate and Corey Crombar of Carbondale, and Jacey and Jacob Wilson of Murphysboro; one aunt, Shirley Wilson of
Ava; seven step grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Terry was also preceded in death by his parents.

Terry worked for 45 years at local coal mines. He was member of the Ava Volunteer Fire Department for more than three decades, finishing with the rank of chief. He was also a dedicated first responder, helping countless people during their times of need. Terry enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, grilling hamburgers and pork steaks, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, at Wilson's Funeral Home in Ava, with Rev. Jason Harrison officiating. Burial will follow at Murdale Gardens of Memory in Murphysboro. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 2, 2025, and Friday morning, 7:30 am until time of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Veterans Honor Flight of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home.