Jerome "Todd" Wilson

Jerome “Todd” Wilson, 66, passed away at home on Thursday, August 27, 2026. He was born in Emporia at St. Mary’s Hospital February 11th, 1960; the son of James A. Wilson & Jean A. (Gilligan) Wilson.

He and his brother Michael attended Hartford Elementary and both Emporia and Liberal, KS grade schools before the family moved to Topeka. They graduated from Topeka High School. Todd found a summer job near Hartford with the Wolf Creek Power plant; living that summer with his grandparents, Bern and Helen Gilligan, south of Hartford. While there, he met and married Diane Foster from which their son was born. (They named him “Michael Steven” after Todd’s brother, whom he tragically lost in 1977.) They then divorced. In 1982 Todd & Jodi Johns were married. From this marriage sons Tyler & Kyle were born.

Todd worked at Dolly Madison Bakery in Emporia for 30 years before retiring. After one “leisure” year off, Todd decided to go back to work. He again retired just recently from many years with Norfolk Iron, Emporia. (Feb 11th 2026)

He loved playing golf and shooting pool with friends. After retirement he lived simply and quietly. He was a good man who believed in God and the hereafter. He read the Bible daily and sought answers through study and research. His heart was full of kindness and generosity to others.

Preceding him in death were his parents, grandparents, son, Kyle, brother, Michael, and uncles, Gary Mounkes and Jerry Gilligan.

Surviving family members are sons, Michael S. Wilson (Kira) Converse, Texas, Tyler S. Wilson (Ashly) of Valley Falls, KS, grandchildren, Holly Wilson, Dominic Wilson, Kolden Ryberg, Kemper J. Wilson, Brynlee J. Wilson, Jaxon Leinbaugh, his uncle, Jim Gilligan (Karen) of Charlotte, NC, his aunt, Sarah Mounkes of Emporia, and special friends, Jodi Wilson, Karen Lacey, Richard Keller, and Chuck Roberts.

Cremation has taken place. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Hartford, Ks.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Prairie Paws Animal Shelter, 1216 Hatcher St., Emporia, Kansas 66801.

Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. is assisting the family with service arrangements.

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