(1943 – 2011)
Mrs. Vera Wilson was dedicated to her job. She served as a County Agent with the Tuscaloosa County Cooperative Extension Service. She graduated from Pickens County Training School and received a B.S. in Vocational Home Economics from Alabama A&M University.
Mrs. Wilson worked in 4-H in Marengo, Walker, and Tuscaloosa counties. She was known to groom winners in public speaking, demonstrations, and chickenque. She conducted sewing classes and provided leadership for Youth-At-Risk programs and youth minority leadership programs. Years after retiring, some of her former 4-H’ers would seek her out for advice on sewing, canning, crafts, and tips on organizing the household.
Mrs. Wilson was active in the Alabama and National Associations of Extension 4-H Agents, Alabama and National Associations of Extension Home Economists, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service Employees Organization, Inc., Alpha Pi Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Phi, Vice-President of the West Alabama Home Economics Association, and the National Association of Retired Federal Employees. She received the Youth Award from the Alabama Association of Extension Home Economists.
Mrs. Wilson loved working in her yard and flowers. Many of her neighbors would seek her advice on gardening. She was most proud of her roses. After retirement, she started working with a class of young women in Greensboro, Alabama, on how to write resumes and how to interview for a job. This was through a grant from Stillman College.
Mrs. Rachel Love, a 4-H Volunteer, wrote: “The Buhl Elementary 4-H’ers looked forward to 4-H meeting day. A week in advance they wanted to get ready. Mrs. Wilson presented relevant programs jam-packed with student participation and decision-making. Through such activities, these students gained life-long skills and confidence to reach out for their dreams.”
Vera Johnson Wilson was an inspiration to all who knew her. Epsilon Sigma Phi is deeply honored to place her name on the dedicatory plaque of the Extension Memorial Chapel.
Chapel Plaque Inscription Number: 567
