A.J. Wilson, Jr. 63, departed this life on June 24, 2024, at his home. He was born on December 17, 1960, in Cleveland, MS, to his parents, A.J. and Essie Mae Wilson, Sr.

 

A.J. graduated from Cleveland High School in Cleveland, MS. After graduation, he moved to Springfield, Illinois and worked for Ryan’s Steakhouse as a cook until they closed their doors. Shortly thereafter, A.J. was hired by MCL Cafeteria. He retired from there after 22 years of service.

 

A.J. was known as a “straight, no nonsense kind of guy.” He would tell you off with a smile on his face! A.J. could make you mad in one minute and have you laughing with him in the next. A.J. enjoyed hanging out in the courtyard with his neighbors, word search puzzles, watching shows on HGTV, and playing his scratch offs.

 

A.J. was preceded in death by his Father A.J. Wilson, Sr., Mother Essie Mae Wilson, Brother J.C. Wilson, Sisters Bettie Wilson, Maxine Wilson, Rosie Wilson, and Lottie Perkins: and the love of his life, Annie Lee Joiner.

 

A.J. leaves to cherish his memory: son, Derrick Joiner, Sr. (Melissa); stepsons, Fredrick Joiner, Demetrius Joiner, and Daytoni Joiner; daughter, Shanine Newton; stepdaughters:, Nicole Meeks, Catherine Snow, Patricia Joiner, and Kianna Joiner, Brother: Jesse Wilson, Sr.; brothers-in-law, Charlie Sanders, Richard Joiner, Robert Joiner, Henry Joiner, Eugene Joiner, Lynard Joiner, and Jessie Joiner; sisters, Ruthie Mae Wilson, Francis Wilson, Norma Triggs, Essie Collier, Juanita Wilson, Pearl Wilson, Lillie Wilson, and Ethel Wells; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Joiner. A.J. also leaves 13 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends to hold dear.