Obituary of Lena James Wilson

Lena James Black Wilson was born on May 18, 1929 in DeKalb, Texas to Sperry Black and Lillie Garrett Black and passed away on December 27, 2016 in Richardson, Texas. Lena grew up in Hughes Springs where she was an honor graduate at HSHS, class of 1946. For much of her adult life, Lena resided in the Pittsburg, Texas area. For a few years, Lena lived in Phoenix Arizona and it was there that she fulfilled a life-long dream by obtaining a BA in Education, with honors, at Arizona State University. She returned to Pittsburg to teach nineteen years in the PISD. At PHS she taught History and English and later moved to the Pittsburg Middle School where she taught Texas History, and sponsored Jr. Historians, mentoring many students in competitions. Her love of Texas took her on a mission to tour virtually all the courthouses in Texas. Lena was a member of the First United Methodist Church where she served on many committees, taught adult Sunday School, worked with MYF, and was active in Methodist Women. She volunteered in the community with a myriad of groups, including serving as President of the PTA, President of the 20th Century Study Club, and chairperson of the Camp County History book project. She was a proud Democrat and frequently was a delegate to the Texas State Democratic Convention where often she served on committees including the platform committee. She loved to read, travel, and to stay informed on current issues. Lena is survived by her three children: Dell and Sara Wilson of Tulsa; Eileen and J.M. Coffman of Richardson; and Sperry and Karen Wilson of Austin. Grandchildren: Amy and Jon Engel; Janessa and James Glenn; Mattie and Matt Pawlowic; Garrett Wilson, and Rebecca Wilson. One great-granddaughter, Julia Glenn. She is also survived by her brother Bob Black of Paris, Texas, brother-in-law Homer and Joyce Wilson of Longview, and a large extended family who she loved dearly. Lena was preceded in death by her husband of almost 68 years, Robert Wilson; daughter Robba Alynn; granddaughter Emma Grace Wilson, and parents Sperry and Lillie Black. Donations honoring Lena's legacy may be made to: First United Methodist Church 109 College Street Pittsburg, TX 75686 N.E. Texas Rural Heritage Museum 204 Marshall Street Pittsburg, TX 75686 Her services will be held 1:00 P.M. Friday, December 30, 2016 at First United Methodist Church in Pittsburg with burial to follow at Hughes Springs Cemetery in Hughes Springs, Texas. Visitation with the family will be between 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home.