Richard Wilson, Jr.

Richard Wilson Jr., known as “Buck,” was born on October 22, 1933, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He was the second-oldest child born to Rev. Richard Wilson and Matilda Wilson. Richard accepted Christ at an early age at Providence Baptist Church, where he was baptized by Rev. J.P. Jones in the waters of the mighty Mississippi River, a moment that marked the beginning of his lifelong walk with God. 

In 1955, he joined his father’s church, Pilgrim Baptist Church, where he faithfully served and lifted his voice in the choir.

After he and his beloved wife left New Orleans and relocated to Chicago to begin a new chapter in their lives, Richard continued his faithful service to the Lord. He joined Second Baptist Church, where he served diligently on the Usher Board, greeting members and visitors with warmth, dignity, and a welcoming spirit that reflected his deep love for God and his church community.

Richard was united in holy matrimony to his loving wife, Ella M. Butler Wilson, known as “Midge”, and together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and devotion.

Richard was educated in the Kenner school system during segregation, attending Kenner Elementary, Kenner Junior High, and Kenner High School. Through perseverance and faith, he built a life rooted in hard work and integrity.

He dedicated 25 years to Jewel, retiring with a mission to open a restaurant. Alongside his loving wife, they operated Richardella’s Restaurant and Bakery for 15 years, serving their community with delicious Southern soul food and warm hospitality. Their establishment was more than a restaurant; it was a gathering place filled with laughter, love, and good cooking.

Richard’s true passion was working on cars. He had gifted hands and a sharp eye for mechanics. Many members of the community would bring their cars to him, trusting not only his skilled hands but his honest heart. His garage became a place of laughter, advice, and friendship.

If you knew him, you knew one thing for certain: he would give you a nickname, and it would stick with you for life. His humor, wit, and playful spirit left lasting impressions wherever he went.

Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His love for family was unwavering.

 He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Ella M. Wilson; four children, Michael Wilson (Carolyn), Judith Wilson, Jacquelyn Willingham (Andre), Richard Wilson III (Beverly); 16 grandchildren, Kesha, Michelle, Shomari, Bandele, Latoya, Chandra, Badru, Brittany, Nicole, Hamdi, Ashley, Brianna, Richard IV, Andre II, Jamila, and Javone; 38 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Lillie Sterling, Johnny Scott, and Ruth Wilson; one brother, Paul Wilson Sr.;  sister-in-law, Glenda Wilson; and host of nieces, nephews, cousins; two godchildren, Terrell Davis and Lisa Allen; and friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Rev. Richard Wilson and Matilda Wilson; his sister, Ethel Palmer; his brothers, William Wilson Sr. and Charles Lee Wilson Sr.; his daughter, Richella Wilson; and his mother-in-law, Juella Jones.

A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Fellowship

Richard “Buck” Wilson was a man of faith, strength, humor, and heart. He leaves behind a powerful legacy rooted in Christ, family unity, entrepreneurship, and service to the community. His life reminds us that God truly is our refuge and strength.

Though he has transitioned from this earthly home, his love, laughter, and lessons will live on in every generation that follows.

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