Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 20th, 2026 (5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.) at Five Fillies Farm, 3207 PA-208, New Wimington, PA 16142. 

Charles “Charlie” Wilson, 83, of New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 17, 1942, in Pottsville, Pennsylvania to the late Lincoln Wilson Sr. and Dorthy Black Wilson. He was a man of strength, integrity, and unwavering character.  Charlie was larger than life in both size and character. Beneath his strong exterior was a soft heart that overflowed with love for his family, friends, and community.

At a young age Charlie discovered a passion for horses in Pottsville, a passion that would shape the course of his life forever. He later moved to Ringtown, Pennsylvania, where he honed his skills to be become one of the finest American Saddlebred Horse Trainers in the industry. His dedication, knowledge, and natural talent earned him the respect and admiration of fellow horsemen and women throughout the industry.

Relocating to New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, Charlie worked for various successful horse farms where he later planted his boots at the McConnell Farms. There, he devoted many years to the work he loved. Throughout his career Charlie earned numerous accomplishments and awards in recognition of his exceptional horse training abilities and dedication to the craft.

As a respected leader in the equestrian world. Charlie honorably served as president of multiple horse show organizations. His hard work and vast contributions to the sport were recognized by the American Saddlebred Museum. His legacy within the horse community will continue to inspire future generations.

Outside of his work, Charlie enjoyed traveling to Youngstown, Ohio where he cherished spending time with family and friends. He especially looked forward to family gatherings and holidays, where he could enjoy the company of loved ones and many of his favorite home-cooked meals. As an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Charlie rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team, often sharing game days with his long-time friend, Bud Butler.

Charlie will be lovingly remembered by his son, David (Donna) Wilson of Columbus, Ohio; his daughter, Carmen Wilson of Youngstown, Ohio; his brother David (Rosan) Wilson of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, his sister, Fannie Wilson of Palmetto, Florida; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Charlie was preceded in death by his sister, Ruthie Wilson; his brothers, Lincoln Jr., Robert, Frankie, and Howard Wilson; his grandson, Tequan Wilson; his dear friends, Keith and Millicent McConnell; and his beloved companion Karen Meyers.

Charlie leaves behind a legacy of hard work, compassion, friendship, and dedication. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.