Tributes

Jonathan Mayo Wilder lived a life marked by faith, integrity, fairness, service, and love. He embodied Micah 6:8“What does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” His life was a testimony to these words. He gave generously of his time, wisdom, and compassion, building bridges of justice and kindness wherever he went. His legacy is one of humility, devotion, and steadfast love, inspiring all who were blessed to know him. Born September 15, 1948, in Raleigh, North Carolina, to educators Jonathan Mayo Wilder, Sr. and Johnsie Rogers Wilder, Jonathan’s journey reflected integrity and purpose. Jonathan grew up in Rusk and Beaumont, Texas and cherished the times he journeyed to North Carolina to spend summertime with his adoring grandmother, Mama Nora and his Wilder cousins. After graduating from Hebert High School in Beaumont, Texas, his family relocated to Houston so that he could pursue a higher education at the University of Houston. Jonathan later on earned his master’s degree. His career spanning service in the Dallas/Fort Worth Police Department, Texas Commission on Human Rights, Austin Community College, Texas Youth Commission, and Texas Department of Transportation, was defined by his pursuit of justice and equity throughout the State and the Nation. Jonathan’s faith anchored his life. At Holy Cross, he served faithfully as Chair of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society and in the Welcoming Ministry, extending mercy and hospitality to countless lives. His reach extended across the Diocese and into his community, where he stood as a beacon of fellowship and fairness. Alongside his beloved wife, Janis, Jonathan also worshiped at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where together they deepened their spiritual walk. He is survived by his devoted wife, Janis DeGrate Wilder; his son, Brian D. Wilder (Laura) of Oakland, CA; bonus children, Derek Smith and Barbie Smith of Houston, TX; his cherished grandson, Prince Chris Thaddeus Biscette of Houston, TX; his siblings, Cabrini Taylor (Michael) of Lenexa, KS, and Virdel Edwards (LaTrisa) of Dallas, TX; nephews, Jason Potter, Joshua Potter (Haley), Virdel Edwards II, Kelven D. Williams; nieces, Anitra V. Johnson, Rashida V. McKnight Strode, and Meka S. Morris Clark; special sister-in-love, Jessie Wilborn (Emmitt); longtime friends, John Benoit and Kirven Powers, and a host of family and friends who loved him dearly. Jonathan’s was a life well-lived, race well-run, a faith well-kept. He now rests in the arms of the Lord, leaving us an enduring example of service, faith, and love.

Tributes

Jonathan Wilder

September 15, 1948 - September 27, 2025