Clarksville Resident Edward Perry Wilson Dies at 82

Longtime Air Force veteran and community volunteer remembered for his faith and service

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:20pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of a dimly lit church interior, with soft, blurred pools of warm light and color, conveying a sense of reverence and community.The funeral mass for a beloved Clarksville veteran and community leader will celebrate his lifelong dedication to faith, service, and supporting his fellow former service members.Clarksville Today

MAJ Edward Perry Wilson, USAF (Ret), a longtime resident of Clarksville, Tennessee, passed away on March 26, 2026 at the age of 82. Wilson served in the Air Force for 20 years before retiring and becoming an active volunteer in his local community, including with the Knights of Columbus, Military Officers Association of America, and Disabled American Veterans.

Why it matters

Wilson's obituary highlights the life and legacy of a dedicated military veteran who continued to serve his community in retirement, reflecting the important role that former service members play in local organizations and the impact they can have even after their active duty ends.

The details

After retiring from the Air Force, Wilson remained an active member of Immaculate Conception Church for over 40 years, and volunteered extensively with the Knights of Columbus, Military Officers Association of America, and Disabled American Veterans. He took great pride in staying productive and giving back to fellow veterans and his community.

  • Wilson was born on September 21, 1943 in Memphis, Tennessee.
  • He passed away on March 26, 2026 at the age of 82.
  • His funeral mass will be held on April 7, 2025 at Immaculate Conception Church in Clarksville.

The players

Edward Perry Wilson

An 82-year-old retired Air Force major who was an active member of his local community in Clarksville, Tennessee.

Barbara Jean Wilson

Wilson's late wife.

William Perry Wilson, David Penland Wilson, Teresa Lynn Wilson, Barbara Ann Velez, and Vicki Sue Wilson

Wilson's children.

Linda Wilson, Lethia Turnage, and Lillian Balas

Wilson's grandchildren.

Ivy Turnage

Wilson's great-grandchild.

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What they’re saying

“Ed was born on September 21st, 1943 in Memphis, TN to William Perry Wilson and Ceclia Anna Catanzaro. He passed away on March 26th, 2026.”

— Obituary

“Ed retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church for over 40 years,as his faith was an important part of his life.”

— Obituary

“After his military career, he volunteered as a member of the Knights of Columbus, serving 37 years. He held several positions earning a lifetime achievement award. He was also a member of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), continuing to support fellow veterans.”

— Obituary

What’s next

The funeral mass for MAJ Edward Perry Wilson will be held on April 7, 2025 at Immaculate Conception Church in Clarksville, Tennessee.

The takeaway

Wilson's life exemplified the continued dedication and service of military veterans to their local communities, even after their active duty ends. His decades of volunteer work with organizations supporting fellow veterans and his lifelong commitment to his faith and community left a lasting impact.