After a courageous battle with illness, Roosevelt Jack Wilson peacefully entered his Heavenly home on Saturday, April 1, 2023, enveloped in the love of his children and his last surviving sibling, Martha. Born as the second eldest of five children on February 27, 1942, in Bucksport, South Carolina, Roosevelt was the cherished son of Joseph and Minnie L. Wilson. The family later moved to Buffalo, New York, where he pursued his education at Kensington High School and Medaille College. He went on to have a fulfilling career at the New York State Division For Youth, making a profound difference in many lives. Finally, after years of unwavering dedication, Roosevelt could enjoy retirement. His service to the United States Army during the Vietnam War shaped his belief in Jesus Christ and strengthened his faith and personal relationships.
Roosevelt and Joyce M. Mack lovingly united in marriage on November 11, 1967. Together they nurtured their family of four children: three daughters, Valerie, Denise, Jennifer, and one son Roosevelt (Darien) Wilson. A strong and handsome man with a commanding presence, Roosevelt dedicated himself to safeguarding his daughters and teaching them how to protect themselves. He took great pride in providing for his family, so his wife could focus on raising their children.
Even though Roosevelt accepted Jesus Christ at a young age, his faith manifested in ways other than regular church attendance. Nevertheless, he was deeply devout and ensured that he played a pivotal role as the spiritual leader of his family. Following his father’s footsteps, Roosevelt led heartfelt Bible Study sessions with his children.
Roosevelt cherished living life on his own terms and was known for his sense of humor and his temper. He was tall and handsome with a muscular physique and spoke loudly and authoritatively. Roosevelt was a big presence wherever he went, taking great pride in dressing impeccably. Regardless of the temperature, he was always “suited and booted” for a night out. A talented musician, he taught himself to play multiple instruments and was fond of jazz. Yet, gospel, bluegrass, classical & R&B also captured his heart. Throughout the 60s and 70s, Roosevelt could be found at local eateries and nightclubs, playing the organ in various bands, leading to lifelong friendships that became like extended family. He always had great swag when he entered a room and was somewhat of a ladies’ man.
Additionally, Roosevelt was an accomplished visual artist who dedicated hours to sketching animals and landscapes with remarkable precision. His artwork often became treasured gifts for loved ones. His passion for drawing and painting inspired his granddaughters, who also grew to be artists in both visual and musical fields. Frequently performing on organ and piano for choral groups, Roosevelt even formed one with his daughters. After practicing specific songs, he would wake up his daughters late at night, assign them parts to sing, and ask them to perform it.
Endearingly known as “Uncle Rosie” to his nieces and nephews, he embraced a fatherly role in their lives and supported their upbringing alongside his siblings. He will always be remembered for being loving but stern in providing lengthy life lessons. Roosevelt cared deeply for his nieces as if they were his own children.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his oldest brother Wheeler J. Wilson, his sister Mildred Jane McRae, his youngest brother Kahurun Alwakeel and his grandson, Eric Alex Johnson. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Joyce Wilson, daughters Valerie Wilson Johnson, Denise Wilson-Shannon, and Jennifer Buchannon (James), son Roosevelt Darien Wilson (Katrina), Vallana Harris, Isaac, Vanessa, and last remaining sibling, Martha Carter.
