Arbernice (Ross) Wilson was born the youngest child on Tuesday, September 21, 1943, in Covington, Tennessee, to the loving union of Jesse and Ada Sue Bernard Ross. Raised in a God-fearing home, Arbernice embraced her faith early in life and accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior.

For over thirty years, she faithfully served as a devoted member of Christian Faith Fellowship in Zion, Illinois. Her unwavering commitment to her faith and her community in North Chicago and Lake County left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

Arbernice was the cherished wife of the late James T. Wilson. Together, they lovingly blended a family of seven children: Theresa Studevan of Wadsworth, IL, Kelvin (Cynthia) Ross of Raleigh, NC, Regina (Timothy) Graham of Durham, NC, Wanda (Yarvin) Cox of Wadsworth, IL, Angela Wilson of Kenosha, WI, Nancy E. Lucas (Robert) of Lake Bluff, IL, James Lezine Wilson of Waukegan, IL.

Arbernice embraced her roles as wife, mother, and grandmother with grace and devotion. Her love was steadfast and far-reaching, extending beyond her immediate family to countless others whose lives she touched. She worked for thirty-two years at Daisy's Nursery in North Chicago, Illinois, where her kindness, patience, and nurturing spirit left a legacy of love.

In her leisure, "Mother Wilson," as she was affectionately called, delighted in studying God's Word, listening to Gospel music, traveling, shopping, and cherishing time with her family. Her life was a true testament to faith, love, and service.

On September 11, 2025, at 4:14 p.m., Arbernice peacefully transitioned at Baptist Hospital–East in Memphis, Tennessee. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted children, three siblings—Vernice Weaver of Drummonds, TN, Jean Hood of North Chicago, IL, and Ernest Ross of Covington, TN—sixteen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends.

Awaiting her in eternal rest are her beloved parents, her husband James, and six siblings: Jessie Mae Smith, Aillene Ross, Everlina Smith, Mae Sue Ross, Frank Ross, and Will Ross.

Her life was a beautiful reflection of grace, strength, and unwavering faith. Though she has gone home to be with the Lord, her memory will forever inspire all who were blessed to know her. To God be the Glory!