James David Wilson

James David Wilson passed away at his home in Temple on Monday, September 16 after a period of illness. He was born on July 13, 1950, in Waco, Texas, to James D. Wilson, Sr. and Nancy Jeanne Powell.

He spent his early years in Altus, Oklahoma, and later attended Belton High School. David attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, and earned both a bachelor's and a master's degree in physical education.

After college, David taught physical education in the Santa Fe Independent School District. He also dedicated much of his time to missionary work for the Baptist Church in Haiti, American Samoa, and Ukraine. He lived in Ternopil, Ukraine for two years, where he learned the language and formed lifelong friendships. He had a deep affection for Ukraine, its culture, and its people.

Upon returning from Ukraine, David spent many years in various roles at Killeen Independent School District and retired in 2017. David was a devoted member of First Baptist Church Belton and enjoyed singing in the choir whenever he could.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Jim Wilson and Jeanne Spencer, his stepfather Alton Spencer, his only sister Constance Carol Wilson Howell, and his brother-in-law Dr. Shelley Mullen Howell.

He is survived by his only nephew, Nicholas Wilson Howell of Berkeley, California. The family will hold a private graveside service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to First Baptist Church Belton or the Baylor Bear Foundation.