Dearly beloved we are gathered here today (Prince) to celebrate Marion Keith Wilson, known affectionally as “Keith” gained his wings Friday, April 14, 2023, after an unexpected illness. He departed this earth with loved ones at his side. He was born December 27, 1965, in Detroit, MI to Barbara Whitfield Wilson. He graduated from Kenmore High School in June 1985 and then went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science in the field of Sociology from The University of Akron in March 2005.

Keith was employed at Akron Public Schools as a Student Success Coach at East Middle and High School.  He was kind, nurturing, funny and the kids loved him. This is one of many cards received from the school…

“Mr. Wilson was such a kind, funny and thoughtful person. Thank you for sharing him with the East CLC Community. He impacted many lives and will be greatly missed.”

Keith realized that mentoring is the most effective way to make an impact. He was a dedicated public servant and tireless community advocate who devoted his life to building a better and safer environment for our children. There is no doubt that Keith made a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands; and we are grateful for him.

He was also employed at Balch Community Center as a Fitness Center Attendant and a Deck Guard during the summer season for outdoor pools where the kids loved and appreciated him.

Keith accepted Christ at an early age at Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church of Akron, OH and attended Greater Galilee Baptist Church of Barberton, OH.

Keith met the love of his life, Tonya M. Wilson, where a beautiful union was created and joined for 20 years until he was called home.

He enjoyed family, friends, good food, music, laughter, traveling, and just enjoying life. He was an electronic guru and enjoyed drawing and sketching. Keith was a long-life Pittsburgh Steelers and Michigan “Wolverines” fan; you couldn’t talk about his teams without a response from him.

Preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Whitfield Wilson, and grandmother, Ruth Whitfield.

He leaves to treasure his memory his loving wife, Tonya M. Wilson; children, Scherrie Hogsett of Cleveland, OH,  Alexander Jerels of Cleveland, OH, Alexis Jerels of Akron, OH, Shanice Williams of Akron, OH, and Keith Sommerville of Akron, OH ; siblings, Melinda (Trina) Giles of Bristow, VA, Lashanda Wilson of Akron, OH, Merrick Talley and Monica Wilson of Alpharetta, GA, Miriam Gentry and Marion Gentry of Montevallo, AL, and Sah’Lomon AL (Shirfaye) Sahlomon of Los Angeles, CA; and forever sister, Deborah Waites of Akron, OH; 11 grandchildren; and a host of family and friends.

Keith Wilson was an all-around great person, and his presence was one of peace, comfort, and laughter. He was a loving husband, father, friend, grandfather; truly irreplaceable in the lives of the many that he touched. The lessons that he taught will be everlasting. A great man will be missed.