Theodore Wilson

Theodore Wilson was born January 7, 1953, in Columbia, SC, the beloved son of the late Isabell Portee Wilson and Freddie Sumter, and the stepson of the late Wardell Wilson. He departed this life on Friday, January 23, 2026, in Columbia, South Carolina.

Affectionately called “Thedo” by family and friends, and “Uncle Boo” by his nieces and nephews, Thedo was educated in the public schools of Richland County. He was employed with the City of Columbia for several years, but later found his passion in construction, painting and as a tiler. Because he was so good at his craft and took extraordinary pride in his work, many considered him the best at his craft, and he was sought after by many. Because he loved what he did he continued his craft until his health declined.

Most importantly, family close to him knew he was a firm believer in his trust in God.  Because of his belief in God even on his worst days, he never complained; and somehow found the strength and grace to throw his head back and laugh at a joke with a twinkle in his eyes until the end. Never thinking about himself, he always wanted to know how others were doing. Though he is no longer physically with us he will fondly be remembered by his family and friends, as a loving and kindhearted person who was always willing to help and share with others however he could.

In addition to his loving parents, he was preceded in death by his loving sister, Nellie Thompson.

Thedo is lovingly survived by a son, Freddie Goodwin; seven sisters, Mary Dunbar, Judy Portee, Sarah Brooks, Barbara (James) Glasgow, Catherine Milligan, Dorothy Wilson, and Rosa Lee Sumter, all of Columbia, SC; three caring brothers, Woodrow (Rhonda) Portee, Tommy Portee and Tub Sumter; a host of loving nephews and nieces who will lovingly remember him as “Uncle Boo”, he will be missed by all those who loved and knew him.

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