Granvel Wilson, age 91 years old, passed on February 6, 2025 at his home with a loving family by his side. He was an amazing man who loved God. Granvel was born in Pollok, Texas. He was the fourth of twelve children blessed to be born to Albert Wilson and Fannie Wilson.
He was a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist church for several years. In life oppositions he kept his faith. He enjoyed reading the Bible. In addition, he was a member of the Masonic Family.
As a young man not wanting to be limited by the opportunities of East, Texas, he enlisted into the United States Army in 1952 and was assigned to Fort Lewis, Washington. He served as a Cannoneer. After completing eight years of military obligation, he was honorably discharged.
Granvel attended barber college and Seattle Community College where he studied business. He worked at Pappy Porter’s as a barber part time and at PACCAR as a lead man fulltime. Upon retiring from PACCAR he became a respected entrepreneur with the opening of Wilson’s Barbershop in the Central District, Seattle, Washington. He was said to be “the oldest barber in the Central Area.” He had a strong work ethic and served his last customer 2 years ago. He worked in the profession for fifty plus years.
Moreover, he enjoyed poetry, gardening, classic cars, playing the guitar and cooking. Most of all he loved being a mentor and confidant to many, particularly young men. As an encouraging force for good, he made a difference in the lives of others. He was a pillar in the community that was well known and a shining light.
Granvel valued family and married twice to Virginia Brown and Eleanor Johnson. He and Virginia had two children from their union. Granvel is survived by children Granvel Leon Wilson, Jr, Dr. Sheryl Wilson, Kim Alston and Yvonne Ford. Preceded in death by grandson Justyn Head; leaving behind granddaughter Myia Brooks (Larry, Jr.); bonus grandson Chance; great grandchildren Brooklyn Brooks, Larry Brooks III, and Jayden Brooks; siblings Viola McDaniel, Christine Green, William Wilson, , Reverend Gwendel Williams, and Gladys Hankerson (Jerry).
The location for the Celebration of Life is New Hope Missionary Baptist Church:
124 21th Avenue, Seattle, Washington.
Date: March 1, 2025
Viewing:10:00
Service: 11:00
Military Interment at Tahoma National Cemetery
18600 Southeast 240th Street
Kent, Washington, 98042
Date: 3 March 2025
Service: 11:15
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