Mrs. Dorothy Gene Wilson, 82, of Galesburg Illinois transitioned to her heavenly home at 5:45 a.m. on Saturday October 17, 2026, at Seminary Manor.
Dorothy was born June 25, 1944, in Georgianna Alabama, the daughter of Melvin and Velma Mims Sr. She made her home in Galesburg, where she attended the public schools, graduating from Galesburg Senior High in 1964. On August 5, 1967, she married the love of her life Earl (Mickey) A. Wilson. They built a life together centered on family, faith and hard work.
Dorothy worked as support staff for Gale Products, and Naeir, a non-profit organization, for many years. She went on to build a long and dedicated career as secretary of the Office of Inter-Cultural Life at Knox College, retiring in 2000. Through her years of service, she contributed to the college community with dedication and dependability that were part of her character. Dorothy also served on the Teen Court Board of Directors from 2014 – 2018.
Dorothy accepted Christ at a young age. Growing up, she attended Second Baptist Church where she served as the church secretary and sang in the choir. She was blessed with an extraordinary soprano voice. She later joined Greater Heights Worship Center of Galesburg where she was a Charter Member, and cheerfully joined in the renovation of the new facility by helping with the painting. Dorothy also served as the Church’s correspondence secretary and was always coming up with new ways to help. Dorothy was a faithful member of Greater Heights Worship Center and did her very best to be present in every service whether Bible Study, Prayer Meeting, or Morning Worship. She joyfully stepped in and served whenever a need presented itself and truly loved serving others, whether at home, in the community or in the House of the Lord.
When Dorothy wasn’t working or spending time with family, she could often be found enjoying one of her favorite pastimes, gardening. She had an amazing green thumb! She was known throughout the neighborhood for her gardening skills. She had a special talent for bringing beauty to the spaces around her and her neighbors knew just how much care and attention she devoted to her plants and flowers.
Dorothy also had a love for baking. Her Texas cake drew great reviews among family members and friends both near and far. Baking brought joy to her heart, and she blessed many with her delicious baked goods, especially her famous Texas cake!
Family was an important part of Dorothy’s life. Her grandson Kobe held a particularly special place in her heart, and she was incredibly proud of him. She will be remembered for her kind heart, loving nature, and the special ways she made those around her feel cared for.
Dorothy was proceeded in death by her parents, her loving and faithful husband of 49 years, two sons, Michael and Darin Wilson, three sisters; Rosalee Lewis, Imeater Davidson and Alice Smith. Three brothers, Melvin Mims Jr., Clyde Mims and Rev. Dr. John Henry Mims.
Dorothy leaves to cherish her precious memories; her daughter and care-giver Lisa Wilson, her beloved grandson Kobe Dickerson, one sister Gloria Williams of Galesburg, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends who will miss her dearly.
Visitation is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services, Galesburg Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Friday at the chapel, with Rev. Andrew Jowers officiating. Burial will be in East Linwood Cemetery in Galesburg. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com.
