Donald Jay Wilson, age 87, of Clinton, Oklahoma, was born on May 14, 1939, in Woodward, Oklahoma, to Robert James and Goldie (Lennington) Wilson. He peacefully passed away on the evening of Friday, July 17, 2026, in Clinton.
Donald spent his childhood in Woodward, where he graduated from Woodward High School with the Class of 1957. Following graduation, he began working at B & H Furniture, a familyowned furniture store where he learned the value of hard work and serving his community.
In October 1961, Donald answered his country’s call and was drafted into the United States Army.
He served honorably until October 1963 before returning home to Woodward and resuming his work at the furniture store.
His dedication to military service continued as he reenlisted in the Army National Guard, faithfully serving until September 1967. Donald was deeply proud of his country, and his years of military service remained one of the accom-plish-ments he treasured throughout his life.
On June 11, 1966, he married the love of his life, Evelyn Jones, in Woodward.
Together they built a loving marriage that spanned six decades, filled with devotion, faithfulness, and family. In 1971, Donald and Evelyn made Clinton their home when he accepted the position of manager at Atwoods. He led the Clinton store for six years before beginning a new chapter in his career with Strange-Jones, where he became a familiar and respected face in the community. He remained there until his retirement in 2000. Donald enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. Whether casting a fishing line, spending time hunting, or cheering on his beloved Oklahoma State Cowboys, he found joy in the outdoors and in supporting the teams he loved. A proud supporter and donor of Oklahoma State University, he rarely missed an opportunity to follow the Cowboys. Above all, however, Donald’s greatest pride was his family. He cherished every moment spent with them and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and unwavering love.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert James and Goldie Wilson; and his brother, Robert James Wilson Jr.
Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 60 years, Evelyn Wilson of Clinton; his son, Bill Miller and wife, Kerry, of Arlington, Texas, and their children, Joshua and his wife Macey, Grace, and Sarah; his daughter, Cathy Powell of Plano, Texas, and her children, Cameron and Jordan; one great-granddaughter, Lainey; along with many extended family members and friends who will greatly miss his gentle spirit.
A graveside service to celebrate Donald’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Elmwood Cemetery in Woodward, Oklahoma, under the direction of the Lee Hometown Funeral Home.