The earthly life of Leon Wilson began in Guilford County, NC, on July 21, 1938. After a long journey that carried him through both mountains and valleys, he passed away on October 15, 2026. Leon was the third of six sons born to the late Frank and Carrie Leona Wilson. His older brothers, Luicoe and Plato Wilson both preceded him in death.
Affectionately known as “Tappy,” Leon grew up in High Point, NC, where he graduated from William Penn High School. For nearly nine decades, he lived within a one-mile radius of his childhood home, remaining close to the community he loved and the family who meant so much to him. He built a long and successful career in the furniture veneer industry.
Tappy was a generous and kindhearted man who found joy in watching cowboy movies, following sports, and spending time at the beach. He had a special love for landscaping and beautifying his yard. For many years, his beautifully maintained lawn and spectacular Christmas decorations were a favorite sight in the community and a source of great pride for him.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 66 years, Edith Coppedge Wilson; his two sons, Alton and Arick Wilson; his three brothers, Norman (Eunice) Wilson of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Wilbur Wilson of Wadesboro, NC and Ronald Wilson of High Point, NC; sister-in-law, Evelyn Wilson of High Point, NC; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.
Funeral service will be held Monday, October 26, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. at First Emmanuel Baptist Church, 833 Leonard Avenue. Interment will follow at Carolina Biblical Gardens. The family will receive friends at the church from 12:00 p.m. until 12:30 p.m.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.
Send flowers to the service of Mr. Leon "Tappy" Wilson
Wishing Edith, Alton, and Arik peace. Tap was a good man, and generous to a fault. I suspect none of us will ever know how many people he quietly helped. He built a successful career in the veneer business. Tap was known, and respected, from the East Coast to California, and internationally in Canada and Guatemala. He was a special man, and a valued friend for many years. Rest In Peace Tap. You will be missed. Brent Shaver
Sending my condolences and prayers to the Wilson Family so sorry for your loss keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers 🕊️🙏🙏🕊️. Sharon Green and Family
Condolences to your Family
To the Wilson Family sending My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sending my love and prayers to all of you. What a wonderful life he had. Love you❤️❤️❤️❤️
Sending prayers and love to your family from Guinell Hills daught Hattie
Mr Tappy Thank you for many years of enjoying the beautiful Xmas decoration .. family Sending My Condolences ..RIP Mr Tappy . Cynthia A Walden
Praying for the family and sending my condolences during this time!
Sending prayers and condolences to the family that God will comfort and strengthen you today and days ahead
Condolences to the Wilson family. May God bless you all with grace and mercy abundantly. Mr. Tappy was a good guy. Alton I pray for strength for you, your Mother and Eric through this journey. I also pray for your Aunts that are good friends .
Condolences to the Wilson family. May God bless you all with grace and mercy abundantly. Mr. Tappy was a good guy. Alton I pray for strength for you, your Mother and Eric through this journey. I also pray for your Aunts that are good friends .
Hello, Family!
"Tappy" Wilson was our Brother Charles Johnson's classmate. "Tappy" was a true friend to many. "Trappy" and Edith truly Blessed the community with a beautiful yard and hospitality. We are thankful for sharing "Tappy" with High Point Families and Friends.
God Bless All!
Rev., Dr. Bobby W. Green, Jr. and Dr. Gwendolyn Johnson-Green
I'm so sorry for your family loss. I'll keep y'all in my prayers 🙏
Sorry for your loss
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.