Billy Edward Wilson, 93, of Mt. Vernon, passed away at 9:38 p.m., Monday, March 9, 2026, at GreenTree at Mt. Vernon, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

He was born May 17, 1932, in Mt. Vernon, the son of Elisha and Viola (Genevo) Wilson.  On December 29, 1956, he married Dixie Davis, and she preceded him in death on December 28, 2024.

Mr. Wilson was a farmer, and loved spending time with his wife at events of all types, including the Sikeston Rodeo, basketball games, and music events.  He also enjoyed spending time with all the children at family get-togethers. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force. Bill was baptized at the age of 72, at a revival at South Hickory Hill Christian Church, where he attended.

He is survived by siblings, Rosalee Faulkner, Charlie Wilson and wife Marie, Danny Wilson and wife Linda, Junior Wilson and wife Diane, Cathy Boone and husband Jimmy, Nancy Hackett and husband Jeff; sisters-in-law, Doris Davis and Lorraine Wilson; brother-in-law, George Dees; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, Dixie Wilson, he was preceded in death by siblings, Mary Jane Dees, Delores Fairchild and husband Tom, Frank Wilson and wife Phyllis, and Ronald Wilson; and brothers-in-law, Johnny Faulkner, Donald Davis and wife Ruth, and Maurice Davis.

A graveside funeral service will be held for Mr. Wilson at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 12, 2026, at South Hickory Hill Cemetery, with Pastor Britt Fullerton officiating.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to South Hickory Hill Cemetery, and will be accepted at the service, or by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830.  Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.