Ernest Lee “Tug” Wilson, Jr.

Ernest Lee “Tug” Wilson, Jr., affectionately known as Tug to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024, in Paris, Kentucky. Born on October 14, 1946, in Winchester, Kentucky, Tug was a man whose kindness, generosity, and selflessness touched the lives of all who knew him.

Tug was preceded in death by his loving parents, Ernest Lee Wilson, Sr. and Vera Virginia “Jennie” Walters Wilson. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family, including his beloved wife, Brenda Lehmann Wilson; his son, Casey (Angela) Wilson; his cherished granddaughters, Christina Lee-Wilson (Thomas) Thompson and Jennifer Casey Wilson; his four stepchildren, Julie (Jeffrey) Preston, Bobby (Cheryl) Lehmann, Dustin Lehmann, and Haley (Cory) Means; his ten step-grandchildren, Logan Preston, Nicole (Tyler) Centers, Brandon (Frannie) Preston, Nathan Preston, Tyler (Marie) Lehmann, Zachary Lehmann, Codey Lehmann, Sean Lehmann, Lizzie Lehmann, and Hunter Means; and his three step-great-grandchildren, Zane Preston, Avryn Preston, and Caroline Centers. Tug also leaves behind several cousins who will miss his warm presence.

Tug was a proud graduate of Bourbon County High School. He furthered his education at Eastern Kentucky University, where he obtained his bachelor’s degree, and then went on to achieve his Masters in Pharmacy at Ohio Northern School of Pharmacy. Tug’s dedication to his education was a testament to his belief in the importance of hard work and perseverance.

For many years, Tug was the respected owner/operator of Wilson Drug in Paris, Kentucky,  continuing the family business that his father started in the 1950s. His commitment to his community was evident in the care and service he provided to his customers. Tug was not only a businessman but also a friend to many in the community, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a kind word.

Tug’s interests were as generous and diverse as his spirit. An avid model railroad enthusiast, he found joy in the intricate details of his miniature landscapes and trains. His love for movies, especially the classic black and white films, was well-known among his friends and family. Additionally, Tug was a licensed HAM Radio Operator, connecting with people across the globe and sharing in the camaraderie of the airwaves.

Those who knew Tug will remember him for his kind heart, his generous nature, and his selfless ways. He had a gift for making others feel valued and loved, and his absence will leave a void in the hearts of many. Tug’s life was a beautiful example of how to live with compassion and integrity.

As we say goodbye to Ernest Lee “Tug” Wilson, Jr., we celebrate the life of a man who was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the love he gave so freely. Tug’s legacy is one of love, service, and the enduring bonds of family. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.

Tug’s life will be honored in a private ceremony at Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY, surrounded by those who loved him most and a private burial at the Paris Cemetery. His family takes comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to guide them, just as his memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known him. Rest in peace, dear Tug, until we meet again.

Pallbearers will be Logan Preston, Brandon Preston, Nathan Preston, Tyler Lehmann, Sean Lehmann, Codey Lehmann, Hunter Means and Zachary Lehmann.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Insko, David Lawrence, Keith Wiseman, Dr. Ray Young, James Hoeft, Dr. Michael Koroly, Geroge Bills, Tully Williams, Randy Windham, Lonnie Conley, Sam Halter, Bryan Bailey and Albert Wess.

The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY.  The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.com and a 24-hour funeral information line can be reached by calling 859-987-4387