Paul Landon Wilson passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, at his home in Golden City, MO, surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was born on September 22, 1936, to Paul and Blanche Wilson in Greenfield, MO.
Paul graduated from Lockwood High School, and at the young age of 19, he began what would become a 45-year career with General Motors (GM). He worked at various GM plants, including those in Kansas City, MO; Janesville, WI; and concluded his career in Lansing, MI. Even in retirement, Paul was not one to remain idle, unless there was a Kansas City Chiefs or Royals game on. Upon returning to Golden City, he and his beloved wife, Bobette, built their dream home, and he took on the role of a school bus driver for the Golden City, MO school district. Paul had an unfaltering and resilient work ethic, which he showcased throughout his entire life, teaching all of his children perseverance through the “value of the dollar.”
Paul was a devoted father of nine children. His first marriage to Sandra Howard in 1956 blessed him with three beautiful children: Michael, Diane, and Rachel. Diane and Rachel recall him tenderly styling their hair as he prepared them for school in their younger years. They fondly recall the joyful times spent with him: his warm voice singing, playful summersaults, and the shared experiences of gardening, farming, biking, and learning to drive farm vehicles together. He was a hardworking father who instilled a strong work ethic in his children.
On February 27, 1987, Paul married Bobette Mills Mendoza, who had six young children from her previous marriage: Michelle, Monique, Laura, Allison, Rachel, and Landon. Together, Paul and Bobette built a beautiful life, setting a profound example of unity, love and commitment for all who knew them.
A true farm boy at heart, Paul grew up on a family farm in Golden City, where he developed a deep passion for good western movies and agriculture. As an adult, he continued to farm and eventually downscaled to cultivated stunning, bountiful gardens that he generously shared with friends and family. His woodworking skills were equally impressive, and he lovingly crafted timeless furniture pieces that remain cherished in the homes of his children and grandchildren.
Paul had a gift for storytelling, often recounting fond memories of his childhood and family. He frequently spoke of his mother’s fresh buttermilk biscuits, which awaited him and his siblings after school. He had a natural, sweet and unwavering love for children, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always finding joy in their laughter and delight in their company. Above all, nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his loved ones.
Paul’s legacy of love, dedication, and generosity will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.
Paul was preceded in death by his son Michael Landon Wilson, daughter Carmen ‘Michelle’ Beers, granddaughter Emilia Celeste Wilson, parents Paul and Blanche Wilson, and his brother Carl Wilson.
Paul is survived by his sister Betty Schilling Smith (Bob), daughters Diane (Rob) Reid, Rachel Higgins, Monique (David) Leeder, Laura (Randy) Naviaux, Allison Pemberton, Rachel Wilson, his son Landon (Emily) Wilson as well as his 19 grandchildren (Robbie, Blaire, Ryan, Michael, Brett, Brandon, Ashley, Samantha, Rachel, Boston, Quinton, Aundrea, Taylor, Scott II, Isabella, Jacob, Preston, Abraham, Elora) and his 14 great grandchildren (Sebastian, Braelynn, Mackenzie, Macie, Ava, Max, Alivia, Bryson, Bronx, William, Amara, Beckham, Walker, and Paul, and many more loved ones.
His family has organized a celebration of life to honor Paul on Saturday, March 29, 2025, 1:00 pm, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints chapel located at 1338 E. Fairview Ave., Carthage, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory, Joplin, MO