Booneville's Sam Wilson, 88, Owned Wilson Shopwise and Served State Government

Sam Wilson built a working life around Booneville that touched the community from multiple directions: as the owner of Wilson Shopwise, as the operator of a sawmill on Cow Creek, and as a retired state employee. He died March 21, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was 88.

Wilson was born July 1, 1937, the son of Jerry and Myrtle (Turner) Wilson, both of whom preceded him in death. His obituary notes that he "worked hard his entire life and held many positions," and that his business ownership gave him the chance to meet and befriend a wide circle of people across the county.

He was a proud member of Cow Creek Presbyterian Church and followed two teams with particular loyalty: the UK Wildcats and the Cincinnati Reds. Beyond those passions, time with his family remained a central part of his life.

Wilson was preceded in death by his wife, Irona Gibson Wilson, to whom he had been married for 58 years and whom, his obituary notes, he missed every day since her passing. He was also preceded by his sister, Alvena Wilson, and his parents.

He is survived by two sons, Danny (Connie) Wilson and Vada (Kaye) Wilson, both of Booneville, and a daughter, Tracy Wilson Arnold, also of Booneville. His brother, Arnold Wilson of Booneville, and sister-in-law Barbara Deaton of Booneville, also survive him. Wilson took particular pride in his five grandchildren: Brandon (Lisa) Arnold, Courtney (Larry) Dunahoo, Brittany Williams of Irvine, Whittney (Brandon) Younts, and Samantha (Shane) Wilson of Beattyville. Six great-grandchildren, Jacob Arnold, Peyton Younts, Asher Younts, Finlee Dunahoo, Spencer Dunahoo, and Annabelle Williams, also survive him.

Services were held March 25, 2026, at Searcy and Strong Funeral Home in Booneville, with Terry Sandlin officiating. Wilson was buried at Cow Creek Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Owsley County, the same church where he had held his membership throughout his life.