February 6, 2025, 69, Coats —

Elder Debra Smith Wilson, 69, went to her heavenly home Thursday, February 6, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.

Mrs. Wilson was born in Wayne County on April 25, 1955. She was a member of Eleven Hour Ministry in Dunn.

She leaves to cherish her memories her loving husband, Elder William Sanford Wilson; her mother, Shirley Butler of Goldsboro; one son, William S. Wilson II; one daughter, Connie F. Johnson (Leander); special niece who was like a daughter, Kimberly McNair (Korel); one brother, Tony Smith (Joyce); three sisters, Jacqueline Smith, Gretchen Bizzell (Anthony) and Kathleen Wade (Michael); a special friend who was like a sister, Kelly Kehoe; brother-in-law, Harrison Smith; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Earl Smith; and her brother, Thomas Smith Jr.

Viewing will be Friday, February 14, 2025 from 4 until 6 p.m. at Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.  Homegoing service will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 10 a.m. at Love Temple in Goldsboro. Burial will follow at Smith Family Cemetery in Dudley. 

The family will be receiving friends other times at the residence in Coats, North Carolina and also her sister’s home, Jacqueline Smith, 1810 N. Carolina Street, Apt. C, Goldsboro.

Professional services entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.