Elmer Leon Wilson, 81, of Columbia, died Friday, August 20, 2021. Born October 9, 1939, in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, he was a son of the late Kyle James and Mabel Naomi Dickenson Wilson. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a custodial and maintenance supervisor for Baptist Bible College in Clark Summit, PA, North Georgia College in Dahlonega, GA, and Shandon Baptist Church in Columbia. Mr. Wilson was a devout Christian and devoted much of time to serving God. He volunteered as a church usher and would routinely visit with sick or elderly church members. Mr. Wilson's greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially when he had the opportunity to spoil his grandchildren. In his youth, he was an avid bowler, participating in work and church bowling leagues.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Beverley Julia Updyke Wilson; daughter, Wendy McGinty (Will) of Blythewood; as well as his grandchildren, Jack Thurston Monroe, Wilson Abram Monroe, and Elle Juliann Monroe. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Harvey G. Wilson and an infant sister.

The funeral service for Mr. Wilson will be held 1 o'clock, Saturday, August 28th at Shandon Baptist Church, 5250 Forest Drive, Columbia, SC. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 7600 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia, SC.

The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12 o'clock in The Gathering Place (the large lobby outside of the Worship Center) at the church. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.