Wilson, Thomas R.

a photo. On Saturday, a singing in memory of Tommy Wilson is planned at the Mt. Hermon Church, located six miles from Jay. Wilson, of Jay, died Nov 15 one day before his 83rd birthday. He is buried at the Mt. Hermon cemetery between Jay and Southwest City. Gospel singers, friends and family from 10 states have contributed to have a tombstone erected at his grave. Wilson had polio and was crippled from early childhood, but he did not let his crutches keep him from becoming a songwriter and gospel singer. He wrote more than 600 gospel songs published by 40 music companies over 60 years. His songs continue to be published in the singing convention songbooks. His songs have been recorded by the Lewis Family, Chuckwagon Gang, the Inspirations and many other well-known singers. For many years, Wilson would hitchhike with a box of songbooks under his arms and attend singing conventions all over the area.