Iowa City Man Paul 'PJ' Joseph Wilson Dies at 66

Wilson was a longtime Pizza Hut employee and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and cheering on his favorite sports teams.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Paul 'PJ' Joseph Wilson, a 66-year-old resident of Iowa City, passed away on February 13, 2026, at his home. A funeral mass will be held on February 17 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Solon, with burial to follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery in Iowa City. Wilson worked for many years at a Pizza Hut in Iowa City and was known for his love of fishing, turkey hunting, and supporting the Hawkeyes, Packers, and White Sox.

Why it matters

Wilson's passing marks the loss of a longtime member of the Iowa City community who was active in local activities and organizations. His obituary highlights the importance of community support services like Pathways and Reach for Your Potential, which provided care and assistance to Wilson.

The details

Wilson was born on October 1, 1959, in Iowa City, the son of James and Doris Wilson. He graduated from the University of Iowa Hospital School and worked for many years at a Pizza Hut location in Iowa City. Wilson enjoyed fishing trips with his brothers, turkey hunting, and cheering on his favorite sports teams, including the Hawkeyes, Packers, and White Sox. He also loved celebrating his birthday, laughing, and spending time with his large family.

  • Wilson passed away on February 13, 2026.
  • Funeral mass will be held on February 17, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.

The players

Paul 'PJ' Joseph Wilson

A 66-year-old resident of Iowa City who worked for many years at a local Pizza Hut.

James and Doris Wilson

Wilson's parents.

Michael, Richard, Thomas, Larry, and Ronald Wilson

Wilson's brothers.

Barbara Wilkes, Martha Wilson, Sarah Ceragioli, and Marianne Hill

Wilson's sisters.

Reach for Your Potential and Pathways

Organizations that provided care and support to Wilson.

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The takeaway

Wilson's obituary highlights the importance of community support services and the impact that long-time residents can have on a local community, even through simple joys like sports fandom and family gatherings.