September 13, 1944-July 23, 2026
Dr. Phillip Gerald “Jerry” Wilson, 81, passed away July 23, 2026. Jerry was born September 13, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, the second of 5 children to Gordon and Marie Wilson of St. Louis.
He graduated from Jennings High School in Jennings, Missouri in 1962. He received graduate degrees from the University of Missouri and received a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas in English.
Dr. Wilson taught English at Shawnee Mission West High School in Shawnee Mission, Kansas from 1974 to 2004. He was a dedicated teacher valued by both his students and colleagues.
He enjoyed traveling to 45 countries, hiking in national parks, from the highest mountain in New Mexico to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.
He had the gift of a great sense of humor and was loved as a kind and generous friend.
He is survived by his wife, Dianne; brothers Gordon, Bob, Rick Wilson and sister Joan Carlson of St. Louis. Nieces Maggie Callahan of Wheaton, Illinois and Kathleen Wilson, of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Nephews, Sam Carlson of Kansas City, Missouri, Paul and Jeff Wilson of the St. Louis area.
Jerry’s life will be celebrated on September 13 from 2:00 to 5:00 at the Fairway City Pool House, 61st and Mission Road. Please bring memories and stories to share.
Jerry loved all animals...dogs were his favorite. He would be so pleased for all critters to be helped and loved with donations to the
Great Plains SPCA, 5424 Antioch Dr., Merriam KS 66202
