Honoring A Life: Family And Friends Remember Joseph Wilder Jr. On What Would Have Been 75th Birthday

WILSON’S MILLS, N.C. — Family and friends gathered at Wilson’s Mills Community Cemetery on March 27 for a balloon release honoring what would have been the 75th birthday of the late Joseph Wilder Jr. of Wilson’s Mills.

Mr. Wilder died on April 20, 2025, after his vehicle was struck head-on on U.S. 70 near Selma by a wrong-way driver who had been fleeing police.

Mr. Wilder was remembered as a beloved and respected Christian, a deacon at First Missionary Baptist Church in Wilson’s Mills, and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and son.

The event was organized by his daughter, Tia Wilder, who said this was the first birthday without her father. “Typically I call him and wish him a Happy Birthday, sing to him, and plan on where to go out to eat. It was supposed to be different. (The balloon release) was beautiful. Mayor Fleta Byrd, family and friends showed up. The police department and fire department directed traffic so we were safe. It was beautiful to hear everyone make their remarks and share stories about him,” she said.

“We had a few laughs and shared memories. One of the things shared was about him getting his senior citizens discount—everywhere he went, he asked for it! One lady said she moved here in 2021 and he was one of the first people to introduce himself. She ended up going to his church. He never met a stranger. One lady mentioned how he prayed with her and her family. He was active at church, a deacon, drove the after-school bus, prayed with people, but was never too busy for his children. Anytime I called to meet him for lunch, needed advice, or help with the grandchildren, he always showed up. He never told me no. It was great to hear the different stories about how impactful he was. I surely do miss him.”

The man charged in connection with Mr. Wilder’s death is scheduled to go on trial in September 2026.