Willie Wilson

YOUNGSTOWN— Willie “The Mayor” Wilson, 84, passed away peacefully Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, at Lincoln Knolls Health Care Center.

Willie was born Aug. 3, 1942, in Anderson, South Carolina, the son of the late Ulysee and Mamie (née Laster) Wilson.

Along his endeavors, Willie eventually hitchhiked his way to Youngstown, where he found a job working for Youngstown Sheet and Tube, and was employed for many years.

During a 13-week vacation from work, Willie suffered an accident that changed the course of his life and eventually brought him to Danridge’s on Oak Hill Avenue, a facility operated by Ruth Danridge. When Danridge’s Burgundi Manor later opened, Willie became the very first resident to walk through its doors. His outgoing personality and familiar presence soon earned him the affectionate title “The Mayor” of DBM, a name that would remain with him for the rest of his life.

Willie had a genuine love for life and the people around him. He enjoyed attending church services, listening to music, giving big hugs, watching scary movies and television shows such as The Twilight Zone, sharing good jokes and conversation, and enjoying his delicious blackberry doobie. His warmth, humor and personality made him a memorable presence to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He is preceded in death by his wife and his daughter, who passed away at a young age.

Mayor Wilson leaves behind his beloved Lincoln Knolls “family” and the many people whose lives he touched throughout the years. He will be remembered for his humor, resilience, big hugs and the joy he brought to those around him.

Willie and those who loved him extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Danridge’s Burgundi Manor and Lincoln Knolls Health Care Center for the many years of friendship, compassion and dedicated care they provided. Special thanks are also extended to Crossroads Hospice for their kindness and support.

Though “The Mayor” may no longer walk the halls, his memory and legacy will live on forever in the community he called home.

A memorial service was held at Lincoln Knolls Health Care Center in Youngstown.

Interment took place on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2026, in Tod Homestead Cemetery in Youngstown.