Joan Wilson (1928-2024)

Joan Wilson, born Oct. 11, 1928, passed peacefully Oct. 19, 2024, at the age of 96. Growing up in the Ash Creek area outside Ellsworth, she was the eldest of Harry and Jessie (Bailey) Long’s five children. Her life was a testament to strength, resilience and love for family.

Joan learned early the value of hard work, responsibility, compassion and play. Early to milk cows, hurry to school, play trombone in marching band, make good grades and ride ‘ol Pat to get the cows. She had fun with her younger sisters and brother, forging strong lifelong bonds.

In 1947, she married Lonnie Wilson, owner/operator of Wilson Livestock Auction in Salina. They raised their family with the same care and devotion she showed her siblings. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, whose wisdom and warmth touched the lives of everyone she met.

In 1968 she got her real estate license and brought the first real estate franchise to Salina when she opened Century 21 Wilson Realty, and with over 30 agents, became a leader in the four-state region.

Joan is preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Jessie Long; husband Lonnie Wilson; siblings Harriet (Glen) Nickels, Rachel Jane Davidson and Don (Margaret) Long; and son Larry Wilson.

She is survived by her sister Annetta (Bill deceased) Shepherd; children Lonnie (Valerie) Wilson; Bill Wilson (Denise Colborn); Jean Wilson- Baker (Bernard Baker); and Joan E. Wilson; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be held Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 308 S. Eighth St., Salina. Visitation/viewing will be Thursday evening from 4-8 p.m., with family present from 5-7 p.m. at Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th St. Information at www.ryanmortuary.com.

Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity in care of Ryan Mortuary.