Thomas Gary Wilson

Thomas “Gary” Wilson, 79, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 15, 1947, in Hendersonville, North Carolina to the late Thomas Dean Wilson and Leona Lawter Wilson.

Gary was blessed to share 57 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Katherine “Kathy” Poston Wilson. Together, they built a life filled with family and countless treasured memories. He was a loving father to Tommy Dean Wilson (Tina) and Matthew Gary Wilson. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Bailey Coggins (Cole) and Thomas Dean Wilson III (Anna), and his great-grandchild, Emory Ellis Wilson.

In his younger years, Gary worked in the NASCAR world, helping many racers build and work on their cars, including Bobby Allison and Marty Robbins. His love for cars continued throughout his life. He later began a 30-year career with Michelin Tire, where he worked until his retirement. He also enjoyed working at the dirt track where he worked on the Little Caesars-sponsored race car driven by Joe Littlejohn.

Gary had a lifelong passion for automobiles, with his beloved 1966 Corvette holding a special place in his heart. He even had the car rebuilt at one point, making sure this treasured piece of his life remained with him. He loved going to car shows admiring cars, talking about them, and sharing his own passion with others. He also enjoyed spending time on the coast, fishing and shrimping with his buddies and sons, making memories along the way.

After retirement, Gary and Kathy moved to Myrtle Beach, where they enjoyed their time together. In 2020, they returned to Spartanburg to be closer to their family.

Gary never met a stranger. He had a gift for making friends wherever he went and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He was loved by many and will be remembered for his friendly nature, his love of cars and racing, and most of all, his devotion to his family and friends.

Gary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be 3:00pm on Sunday, September 27, 2026 at Cedar Springs Baptist Church, 140 Cedar Springs Pl, Spartanburg, SC 29302.

Memorial services will follow at 4:00pm, conducted by Dr. Todd Lowe.

In honor of Gary, memorials may be made to Cedar Springs Baptist Church.