Wilson E. Lehman

Wilson Earl Lehman, age 85, passed away peacefully at his childhood home on May 22, 2026. A man of quiet dedication, boundless curiosity, and a deep love for the natural world, Wilson leaves behind a legacy of community service, artistic craftsmanship, and cherished family memories.

Born on October 6, 1940, in Carbon Hill, Ohio, to Rachel (Wilson) and Lawrence Earl Lehman, Wilson moved to Mt. Sterling with his family when he was two years old. In 1950, his grandfather, Fred Wilson, came to live with them and was a great friend to and influence on Wilson. Wilson’s lifelong passion for books began in his youth; as a child, he famously read every single book available for his age group at the local library. Wilson graduated Valedictorian from Mt. Sterling High School in 1958. After attending The Ohio State University and earning his Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, he became a lifelong devoted Buckeyes fan. His early career took him to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he worked at Sandia Labs. It was during this time that he met Virginia Elizabeth Barnes, and they were married on June 12, 1965. After the births of their children, Wilson’s career took his young family to the Chicago and then Denver areas where he worked for Western Electric. In 1975, Wilson returned to his roots in Mt. Sterling, where he worked and eventually took ownership of Bandy Farm Supply.

Wilson’s love for the outdoors was woven into everything he did. An avid gardener, he spent countless hours planting and tending to beautiful flower gardens, where he also found great joy in feeding the local birds. His compassion for animals extended far beyond his garden; for the past ten years, with the dedicated help of Dr. Fred Brown, Wilson trapped, neutered, released, or found homes for dozens of neighborhood feral cats.

Wilson shared his passions generously, leading his children and grandchildren on many memorable zoo trips and countless hikes—especially to Old Man’s Cave and the Hocking Hills area—instilling in them his own sense of wonder for nature. When he wasn't outdoors, Wilson could almost always be found with a book in hand and a Buckeyes or Reds game on TV or the radio.

Wilson was a man of diverse talents, balancing attention to detail with a deeply artistic spirit. This unique combination was evident from a young age. His father, Lawrence, had a passion for model trains. Starting at ten years old Wilson began building the intricate model buildings and landscapes that grew into a massive project; his detailed model railroad layout fills the upper floor of his home to this day.

His artistic eye and family influence drew him to cameras and photography. Wilson was rarely seen without a camera and was frequently called upon to document notable community and family events, capturing memories that many still treasure.

His commitment to his community was profound and enduring. Wilson served in multiple roles with the United Methodist Church. He was a scout leader and volunteered with Meals on Wheels for nearly 35 years—originally taking over his own mother’s route—delivering meals until the age of 80. He also gave back to his community by serving for nearly a decade on the Board of the Mt. Sterling Public Library.

Wilson was always grateful for the service he received from Grif Vincent (who shares his birthdate), Larry Baisden, Art McCann, and Dave Preece. He also relied on the expertise of his neighbor, Bob Wilson, in many ways and greatly enjoyed evenings sitting on the porch with Bob and his wife Sue.

Wilson was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia Barnes Lehman. He is survived and deeply missed by, Elizabeth; his children, Dawn Denise (Todd) Ebert and Lawrence Robert; and his cherished grandchildren, Elise Ebert and Jack Wilson Ebert, who carries his grandfather's name.

Wilson was laid to rest near his family at Pleasant Cemetery in Mt. Sterling, Ohio on May 29, 2026. To honor Wilson’s memory, contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Madison County to support their mission of caring for animals in need or to the Mt. Sterling Public Library to support their mission of lifelong learning.

Porter-Tidd Funeral Home, of Mount Sterling, OH, assisted the Lehman family.