Curtis Raymond Wilson, Sr.

Curtis Raymond Wilson Sr., an accomplished athlete, respected public servant, devoted family man, and a man of unwavering faith, passed on January 21, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas, surrounded by love and attentive care from his beloved grandson, Malik Petties. Born on December 4, 1945, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Clemmer Lee (Allen) Russell and Richmond Prince, Curtis exhibited discipline, determination, and natural leadership from an early age. These qualities would define his life and legacy both on and off the field.

Curtis attended Douglas High School, graduating in 1964, where his athletic talent distinguished him as a standout football player. As quarterback, he etched his name into school history by throwing a 99-yard passing touchdown, a record that still stands today. His performance on the field earned him national attention and set the stage for an extraordinary football career.

In 1964, Curtis was drafted to and enrolled at the University of Minnesota, where he played quarterback for the Golden Gophers. He became one of the first quarterbacks to lead the team to a Big Ten Championship in 1967, securing his place among the program’s early legends. Known for his composure, intelligence, and leadership, Curtis commanded respect from teammates and coaches alike.

Curtis continued his football journey professionally, spending time with the Atlanta Falcons and playing in the Canadian Football League in Alberta. He ultimately concluded his football career with the Las Vegas Cowboys, where he retired from the game and chose to make Las Vegas, NV his permanent home. Football was more than a sport to Curtis—it was a lifelong teacher that shaped his discipline, character, and approach to mentorship.

Following his athletic career, Curtis transitioned into leadership roles beyond the field. He dealt baccarat at the Aladdin Hotel, Tropicana Hotel, and Caesars Palace, earning a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and excellence. He was widely respected and well known among colleagues, celebrities, and community leaders.

In 1979, Curtis entered public service with the Clark County Fire Department, where he served with honor and distinction. Despite enduring significant injuries—including spinal stenosis resulting from college football and a severe fall during his fire service career—he persevered with remarkable resilience. His dedication, leadership, and steady command led to his retirement as a Fire Chief in 1997, marking a distinguished career in public safety.

A lifelong mentor, Curtis devoted countless hours to coaching Pop Warner football and advising student-athletes at UNLV. He believed deeply in shaping young athletes beyond the game, emphasizing discipline, education, faith, accountability, and perseverance. Many credit him with influencing not only their athletic careers, but the trajectory of their lives.

Curtis dedicated his life to Christ in 1978 and became a deeply committed member of the Christian community. He faithfully attended church services and Bible studies and read scripture nightly. In his final days, he found great comfort and peace sitting quietly as his granddaughter, Mijani Petties, read the Bible to him—moments that reflected the faith that anchored his life.

As a father, Curtis was fiercely devoted. He raised Marla, Curtis Jr., and Rosclynn as a single father for many years, taking them everywhere he went and instilling the values of education, travel, resilience, and wisdom. He deeply adored his sons, Michael Adams and Curtis Jr., often sharing stories of football, overcoming adversity, and his travels. His daughters and granddaughters were the beneficiaries of his intentional commitment to raising strong, intelligent, and independent women.

Curtis took immense pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchild, frequently boasting about them when they were not present to hear it. His bond with his grandson Malik Petties was extraordinary—marked by travel, laughter, and unforgettable adventures that made it clear their relationship went far beyond generations. He was equally devoted to his grandson Nathan, whom he cherished deeply. The birth of his first grandson, Jordan Adams, marked the beginning of a legacy that filled him with pride.

Family remained central to Curtis’s life. He shared a special bond with his sister/aunt Jerl Jones, Ollie Jenkins and brother/uncle Delbert Allen Sr., with whom he reflected on their humble beginnings and life journeys. A man of curiosity and global travel, Curtis embraced diverse cultures and religions, and often said he wanted “every day he had coming to him.”

Despite being diagnosed with congestive heart failure in January 2023 and progressive spinal stenosis, Curtis remained strong in spirit. Known for his impeccable style, striking presence, and pride in self-care, he carried himself with dignity until the very end. In his final days, he was surrounded by family and was blessed to celebrate his 80th birthday with his loved ones.

Curtis was preceded in death by his mother, Clemmer Lee (Allen) Russell; his father, Richmond Prince Sr.; and his brothers, Darnell McCowan, Ben Wilson, and Kevin Russell.

He leaves to cherish a wealth of fond memories, his children: Michael Adams of Salt Lake City, Utah; Marla Wilson Clark and son in-law Hamilton Clark of Charlotte, North Carolina; Curtis Wilson Jr. and daughter in-law Hilda Wilson of Reno, Nevada; Lisa Veasy of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota; and Rosclynn Wilson of Las Vegas, Nevada. He is also survived by his grandchildren Malik Petties, Mijani Petties, Jordan Adams, Malik Adams, Isaiah Adams, Valerie Wilson, Quintin Veasy, and Lavonte Henderson; his great-grandchildren Presley Petties, Xylah, Karrare, Quintin and Lavonte Jr.  Step-grandchildren Chandler Ridges, Jeremy Clark, Madison Clark, Braylon Clark and Brenton Clark. His brothers John Allen Wilson, Garland Russell (Jean), Richmond Prince Jr.; his sisters Glenda Horne, Wanda Rhodes, Maria Prince and Tonya Prince. Step-Brother Willie Wilson and Step-Sisters Pearlie Price and Regina Wilson. A host of aunts, an uncle, nieces, nephews, cousins, former teammates, colleagues, and lifelong friends. Curtis Raymond Wilson Sr. leaves behind a legacy of athletic excellence, leadership, mentorship, faith, and family devotion. His impact will continue to be felt on the field, in the firehouse, in the church, and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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