Thomas Wilson

Thomas C. (Tom) Wilson, age 89, passed away on April 22, 2026, in Brighton, Michigan. Born on January 3, 1937, in St. Johns, Michigan, to Virginia and Rollin Wilson, Tom was a man of immense character, creativity, and an "unbridled enthusiasm" for life that left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

On August 6, 1960, Tom married the love of his life, Joyce Elaine (Henning). Together, they shared 65 beautiful years of marriage, raising their family in Ann Arbor and Pinckney before eventually settling in the Howell area. Beyond the sidelines, Tom was a gifted watercolor artist whose paintings graced the walls of his home. He was an avid reader of spy novels and military history, and he possessed a marvelous sense of imagination that deeply endeared him to his grandchildren. He took immense pride in his children and grandchildren, instilling in them a love for education and the importance of being kind, giving, and responsible global citizens.

Tom’s journey was defined by grit and determination. After serving as a Sergeant and aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956 to 1959, he spent several years delivering milk and bread to support his young family. However, his true calling lay in the classroom and on the athletic field. In 1963, with a wife and three children at home, Tom made the courageous decision to complete his higher education. His path began at Alma College, followed by Lansing Community College and Michigan State University, where he remarkably completed three years of coursework in just two years while working a full-time job. He graduated in 1968 with a B.S. degree in Social Studies. He was always quick to credit his success to his partner in life, often saying of Joyce, "Her name should be on my diploma."

Over a storied 32-year head coaching career at St. Johns, Pinckney, Ann Arbor Pioneer, and Ann Arbor Huron high schools, Tom recorded 145 wins and was inducted into the Michigan High School Football Association Hall of Fame in 1990. While his accolades were many—including being named Ann Arbor News Metro Coach of the Year three times—his true pride was in his role as an educator. He viewed football not just as a game, but as a vehicle to teach students about values, integrity, and the expectations of being a good person.

Tom was co-chair of the finance committee for the construction of the new St. Mary’s church and school building. He played an integral role in parish life as a regular usher for the 9:00 a.m. Mass, always recognized by his fashionable, colorful bow ties. Tom’s welcoming personality and the way he greeted everyone who entered the church were the source of countless friendships. He was also a third-degree knight in the St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Wilson; his children, Mike (Colleen) Wilson, Pat (Debbie) Wilson, Jenni (Joe) Gross, and Matt (Kim) Wilson; and his five grandchildren, Andy Wilson, Nick Wilson, Kari Wilson, Alex Gross, and Keego Gross. He is also survived by his brother, Jerry (Diane) Wilson, and sister, Joyce Allen, along with many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Rollin Wilson; his sister, Betty Tellier; and his brother-in-law, Duane Tellier.

Following Tom's wishes, cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, June 19, 2026 at Borek Jennings Funeral Homes, 1700 W. Highland Rd., Howell, Michigan, from 3:00-8:00PM. A rosary service will take place at 7:00PM. Gathering will continue from 10:00-11:00AM on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 10601 Dexter-Pinckney Rd., Pinckney, Michigan. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00AM. Interment with military honors will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery at 450 Mower Street in the Village of Pinckney.

Memorial Contributions are suggested to Arbor Hospice or St. Mary Food Pantry. 

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