The city of Greenville, the City Council, Mayor Errick Simmons, and the Delta Democrat-Times mourn the loss of a great man who served Greenville until his final moments.
God has called Ward Six Councilman James Wilson Sr. home.
James Wilson, via a Zoom call at Tuesday's city council meeting, was in attendance and active in the comings and goings of the city’s business.
James Wilson was always looking out for the little guy, making sure the needs of the residents of Greenville did not go unnoticed.
A champion of the people, some of Wilson’s initiatives were directly responsible for the health, wealth, and safety of Greenville’s residents.
Wilson spent years fighting for his community, making sure people got what they needed, whether it was better city services, safer neighborhoods, or just a voice at the table.
He never hesitated to speak up, no matter how tough the conversation.
His work didn’t stop at City Hall.
Wilson was a member of Mt. Aarat M.B. Church in Greenville, Mississippi, where he served as a deacon, and he was out in the neighborhoods, talking to people, listening to their concerns, and finding ways to help.
He believed in Greenville and worked every day to make it a better place.
Wilson wasn’t just a councilman—he was a mentor, a friend, and someone who truly cared.
His absence will be deeply felt, but his impact will not be forgotten.
Mayor Errick Simmons released this statement about James.
It is with great sadness that Mayor Errick D. Simmons Announces the Passing of Ward 6 Councilman and Greenville Businessman James Wilson.
Since 2016, Councilman James Wilson has been an active member of the Greenville City Council, serving on Public Works and Finance Committees.
From 2021-2022, he was appointed and served as the Vice Mayor of Greenville.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of a dedicated public servant, Councilman James Wilson,” Simmons said. “Councilman Wilson served the residents of Ward 6 and the entire City of Greenville with unwavering commitment, integrity, and a deep passion for our community. Since his election in 2016 and his tenure as Vice Mayor from 2021 to 2022, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of our citizens, championing causes that fostered progress and unity in our beloved city. Councilman Wilson was more than a colleague; he was a friend, a leader, and a man of faith. His contributions to Greenville’s economic growth, infrastructure development, and community engagement will leave a lasting impact on generations to come. His strong voice at the City Council table was one of wisdom, compassion, and conviction always advocating for the best interests of our residents and city employees.
In honor of his life and service, I am ordering all flags throughout the City of Greenville to be lowered to half-staff. We will continue to celebrate his legacy by striving for the vision of progress he so passionately worked toward. On behalf of the City of Greenville, my family and I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, the Greenville City Council, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. May we find strength in his memory and honor his life by continuing to serve our community with the same dedication and love that he exemplified. Rest in peace, my dear friend. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of those you served.”
