Hugh Wilson, Jr.

BELOVED MEMORIES

Hugh was born on October 10, 1957 in Philadelphia, PA. to Hugh D. Wilson, Sr., and  Creola Howard Wilson. Hugh's father was from Jamaica, West Indies and his mother, from Rock Hill, South Carolina. Hugh was born at Philadelphia General Hospital and was the fourth of five children. From day one, Hugh was affectionately known as "June", short for Hugh Junior. Then in the early teen years some began to call him "Smiley '' or "Lil Smiley '' because his oldest brother's nickname was Smiley.
At the age of twelve he was baptised at St Peter's Lutheran Church. He looked forward to having fun with his friends and participating in the youth programs held there. During that time he attended church every Sunday. He has always believed in God and trusted Jesus for his salvation.
Around that same time, as a young boy, at about the age of ten, Hugh and his brother, Winston made pocket money at the local grocery store and garden center. They unloaded trucks for a few dollars and carried customer groceries to their cars for tips. They used money for personal things they enjoyed such as match box cars and going to movies.
Hugh attended Pennypacker Elementary School, Leeds Middle School, and Olney High School. During high school Hugh developed an aptitude for electrical work and after high school he was recruited to attend classes. During his work career, Hugh was employed by various companies doing construction and painting contracting. He also worked for several years at the Naval Air Station in Willow Grove.
Hugh had an infectious smile, a big heart and a kind spirit. Often he would do anything he could to help others. If it was needed, and he could do it, he would. Hugh enjoyed music, getting dressed to impress, and in his younger days, doing all the latest dances. He enjoyed people, loved talking, laughing, and joking around. Cars, dogs, and fish aquariums were his big interests and most times he had all three simultaneously. Hugh enjoyed watching basketball and football, but boxing was his favorite sport.
At age twenty eight Hugh married his girlfriend of several years, Cheryl Phillips. To that union was born Dominique, their only child. Dominique's birth was anticipated with joy and excitement by all. After about thirteen years the marriage was dissolved. Hugh and Cheryl parted peacefully.
Hugh's life was filled with many health and financial challenges. But he woke up every day and faced them with a song in his heart. He loved music. It was like therapy for him. Whether it was the oldies or gospel, music took the edge off the many problems that compromised his quality of life.  
Hugh's spirit had a special love for children. He took great joy in interacting with his daughter Dominique, his grandchildren, his nieces and his nephews. His grandson, DaShaaun, had an extra special place in his heart. They enjoyed talking together, watching television programs, sharing meals and just hanging out. They looked forward to seeing each other whenever time permitted.
In 2001 Hugh met Tracy Carter. She became his long-time girlfriend and partner. They shared a lot of things in common and enjoyed spending time together. They supported one another through good and bad times, and particularly in times of illness. When Hugh's lung disease required emergency attention, Tracy called 911 and administered chest compressions as directed, to help keep him breathing until the emergency team arrived. She was the last person to see and speak to Hugh before he passed.  
Hugh is survived by his daughter, Dominique, his son-in-law Kevin,  his five grandchildren: DaShaaun, Zyair,  Kamir, Ayana, and Anya; his siblings: Anderson, Lydia, Winston, and Linda, a host of cousins, nieces and nephews, a long time girlfriend, Tracy Carter, his dog Cain, his cat Laila and a host of friends and associates.

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