Remembering the Legacy of Pinky Wilson

Patricia S. Wilson, known to everyone as Pinky Wilson passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Saturday, January 17th, 2026.

Pinky arrived in La Grange in 1963, an RN newly married to John Wilson. In all the years since, her life has been woven deeply into the fabric of this community. While working for Dr. Smith, she provided comfort and care to so many people. Her path changed when civic leaders came to their door, entreating John to represent them in the Texas House of Representatives. As she always did, Pinky embraced the challenge and served alongside John in ably promoting the interests of Fayette County.

When John tragically died of cancer in 1982, Pinky dedicated her life to serving others and supporting causes she believed in. She served on the Board of Fayette Memorial Hospital and was a driving force in getting the new hospital built in La Grange. She also loved our four-legged friends and served on the Board of the Gardenia Janssen Animal Shelter, where she provided important funding and support.

Governor Clements appointed Pinky to serve on the Board of the Lower Colorado River Authority, and she was the first woman elected to be Chairman of the Board. During her time on the Board, the LCRA completed construction of the Fayette Power Plant near La Grange, an important source of economic value to Fayette County.

Pinky’s faith was always central to her life. She found a spiritual home at St. James Epicopal Church. Pinky was a long-time member of the Vestry, and one of the founders of the St. James Endowment Fund which provides financial security for the church today.

Two ministries were close to her heart. She was keenly interested in making sure young children have a nurturing, Christian start in life, so she championed the creation of the St James Episcopal Preschool. When the Men’s Club started the “Holy Smokers”, Pinky provided all the funding for their barbecue pit. All the proceeds from barbecue cooked on “Pinky’s Pit” go to support local charities in Fayette County.

Pinky lived in the beautiful, historic home on Colorado Street. She graciously opened her home for charitable fund raisers, weddings, graduation photographs and many other community events. Once, John and Pinky hosted Governor Bill Clements for an evening event so that citizens of La Grange could meet and visit with their Governor.

The celebration of life for Patricia S. Wilson, will be held at 9:30 a.m. on February 21st, 2026, at St. James Episopal Church in La Grange. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to St James Episcopal Church or the Gardenia Janssen Animal Shelter.