Royal Wilson Jr. was born on March 13, 1937, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Royal Wilson Sr. and Rosietta Wilson. Also born to this union was his sister, Dorothy. His parents and sister all preceded him in death.

At an early age, Roy, as he was affectionately known by family and friends, relocated with his family to Cleveland, Ohio, where he was raised and educated in the Cleveland Public School System.

Roy was the proud father of five children. From his first marriage, he was blessed with two children, Amanah and Angelo. He later welcomed a daughter, Jacqueline.

Roy answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably for four years. His military service remained a source of great pride throughout his life.

Later, Roy met and married the love of his life, Shirley Grimes, in 1960. Together they built a loving home and were blessed with two children, Andrea and Derrick.

Roy was a hardworking and dedicated man whose strong work ethic was evident throughout his life. A Master Barber for more than 65 years, he owned and operated Roy’s Barber Shop on Union Avenue, where he became a familiar and respected presence in the community. He also owned and operated Roy’s Deli on Cleveland’s east side for many years, faithfully serving friends, neighbors, and loyal customers.

Committed to lifelong learning and personal growth, Roy graduated from West Side Institute of Technology,  earning a diploma that led to a career as a stationary engineer with the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company (CEI). After 25 years of dedicated service, he retired from CEI.

Even after retiring from CEI, Roy’s passion for barbering drew him back behind the chair. He joined the team at Franklin Nu style, where he enjoyed spending time with his customers and friends. Whether cutting the hair of a man, woman, or child, Roy took pride in helping each person leave looking their best and feeling good about themselves. More than a barber, he was a trusted friend, a listening ear, and a source of encouragement to all who sat in his chair.

After earning his degree in Religious Studies from the Interdenominational Community Bible Institute, founded by his wife, Shirley Wilson and Genell Champ, Roy answered God’s call to the ministry in 1986 under the pastorate of the late Reverend William T. Sawyer at Christian Tabernacle Evangelistic Church, where he served faithfully and devotedly for many years. Following the merger of two beloved ministries, Roy became a member of Pentecostal Church of Christ under the leadership of the late Bishop J. Delano Ellis II. Through years of serving together, Roy and Bishop Ellis developed a close friendship, and Bishop Ellis became a trusted mentor who helped shape Roy’s leadership in ministry. Roy’s unwavering faith, servant’s heart, and steadfast commitment to God’s work ultimately led to his ordination to the Episcopal rank of Bishop (Auxiliary) in the Pentecostal Churches of Christ in 2018.

Bishop Wilson leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving wife, Shirley Wilson; his children, Angelo Wilson (Eva Jean), Jacqueline Olds (Earnest), Andrea Wilson, and Derrick Wilson; along with a host of cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Amanah.

His legacy of faith, love, service, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.