Wilhelmenia Wilson

Wilhelmenia Wilson was born on July 12, 1932 in Saint Matthews, South Carolina. She was the loving daughter of William Randolph and Willie Mae Caldwell. Wilhelmenia took her final breath on April 3rd, 2023.

“Menia” as she was lovingly called by her siblings, was the first born of her beloved mother’s children. She attended the Alice Michael School in Calhoun County South Carolina for her primary and secondary education. From a very young age she had a passion and purpose to serve and help others. That purpose carried her through her life’s journey and her walk with Christ and even paved the way for a successful career as a Nurse Practitioner for over 40 years, until her retirement in the early 1990’s. 

Wilhelmina married the love of her life Waddell Wilson in the Spring of 1950. They moved to New York City following her mother’s lead for better opportunities for their growing family. In their union they welcomed nine children. Waddell Jr., (Brother) Clintion, Fredrick & Frankie (The twins), Joseph (JoJo), Lillian (Lil), Delores, Janis and Melva Wilson. They raised their children and established their roots in the Bronx, NY. 

Sister Wilson was a devoted and active member of Bethel Temple Church under the leadership of her spiritual mentors Reverend Frederick D. Dreher and later Rev. Jack Walker. Sister Wilson was the head of the Sr. Usher Board, Sr. Choir member, Sunday School Teacher, and member of the Sick and Shut-In Board. She honorably organized and facilitated luncheons, holiday food give a ways, college scholarship funds, church field trips, cookouts and banquets. She raised money and awareness for community initiatives for important matters such as Early Childhood Education, the NYC Hunger Crisis, and Voters Education and Registration. She also served as PTA President for many years during her children’s and grandchildren’s educational careers in District 12 (Bronx, NY).

 “Nanna” as she was called by her grandchildren resigned her post at Bethel Temple Church after more than 30 years of service and was instrumental in the founding of Bronx Christian Temple alongside Pastor Jack Walker. She served her family, church and community tirelessly until her life changing stroke that would leave her bed ridden until the day of her glorious return home. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Willie Mae Randolph; husband, Waddell Wilson; sons, Franklin Wilson, Walter Wilson, Clinton Wilson, and Frederick Wilson; sister, Barbara Wallace; and brothers, Alvin Collins, Franklin Randolph, Claude I. Collins, and Johnny Randolph.

Wilhelmenia leaves to cherish her memory, younger sisters, Deborah and Ladosher; eldest son, Waddell Jr.; four daughters, Lil, Delores, Janis and Melva; 32 grandchildren; great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and great-great-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and cousins, along with a host of other family members and friends.

She will be deeply missed and cherished in our hearts, our minds and in our doings, forever. 

Submitted lovingly,

The Family 

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