Martin Lewis Wilson

Martin Lewis Wilson was born on January 15, 1971, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Sammy Calhoun and Eliza Tate. In 1975, his family relocated to West Helena, Arkansas, where he continued his education, attending both elementary and high school. Martin departed this life on July 15, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. At an early age, Martin accepted Christ at Gumwood Missionary Baptist Church in Ratio, Arkansas. He later became a devoted member of True Vine Missionary Baptist Church in West Helena, Arkansas where he served faithfully as a musician for 21 years. He also shared his musical talents with Paradise Missionary Baptist Church in Marianna, Arkansas and at New Hope in Moro, Arkansas, as well as for the Phillips, Lee, Monroe, and Desha (PLM & D) District Choir. Martin dedicated many years of his life to public service. He worked for the Helena-West Helena Police Department and later joined the Marianna Police Department, where he proudly served as Chief of Police for many years. He was currently employed by Helena Chemical in West Helena, Arkansas. Martin started singing and playing guitar at six years old with the Faithful Harmonizers. His favorite song to lead was “I Won’t Have to Cry No More – Washing My Robe.” Martin was an original member of the Fantastic Jordan Wonders, a gospel group he performed with alongside his brothers and the late Reverend James Baker. A truly gifted and passionate musician, Martin humbly shared his talent with all who would listen. His deep love for music was evident in every note he played. No matter the genre or song, Martin brought it to life with excellence and heart. Martin was united in holy matrimony to Addie Nicholson, and together they shared 17 beautiful years of marriage. From this union, one son was born. He was preceded in death by his grandmother; Dorothy Tate, grandfather; Leroy Tate, Sr., uncles; Leroy Tate, Jr., Hayward Tate, Sr., aunt; Mary Oliver, brothers; Jack Wilson, Artis James Baker, and mother-in-law; Sarah Nicholson. Martin leaves to cherish his memory his wife; Addie Wilson, his mother; Eliza Tate, two sons; Martez (Jennifer), Dylan, four daughters; Markeya (Keevan), Tremia (Brian), Alexis, Kiara, two brothers; Charles (Laniel), Joe (Shirley), four sisters; Diane, Dorothy (Tim), Saderra (Kevin), Tanya, sisters-in-law; Annie, Deloris (Ricky), Faye, Jeannie, Cora, his Godfather; Reverend L.T. Mapp, thirteen grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.