Jeff Wilson's Family

Hi, my name is Sharri Cagle. The Wilson Family are dear friends of ours for 16 years now. Our girls Emily and Lindsey grew up together and had the same teachers in Elementary School through 4th Grade. The Wilsons were Lindsey's first sleepover and they were the first to come and visit us when we moved to Arizona. I was blessed to work with Jeff on the Let Freedom Ring Courtyard and help make his idea of creating that courtyard into a reality. Jeff was my kids' Coach at Freedom Elementary School and a forever friend to our entire family. It was a blessing to know Jeff and be able to spend time with him. I am creating this fundraiser, due to the tragedy that took Jeff's life and the support that is needed for Ariane and the girls.

On Saturday, June 3rd, Jeff, Ariane & Emily Wilson were struck by a car while walking in the crosswalk of an intersection in St. Petersburg, FL. Ariane received injuries to her shoulder, ribs, ankle, and head. She is beginning her journey to physical recovery which will require additional care. Emily was not struck by the car but received lacerations to her legs in the ensuing events. Jeff received the greatest impact which resulted in a catastrophic head injury. Jeff succumbed to his injuries on Monday, June 5th, at Bayfront Medical Center.

Jeff shared his last act of service with the “Honor Walk” on Wednesday, January 7th, which is given to those who donate their organs so that others may live. It is a testament to Jeff and his family that they selflessly and gracefully endured these additional days so they could be a blessing to so many other families in crisis.

Jeff was a beloved father, husband, son, nephew, cousin, friend, teacher, and coach. He touched the lives of many. The loss cannot be fully expressed or measured.

As an educator, Jeff had a passion for teaching and learning. He had a love of history, soccer, patriotism, serving others, running, and cycling. But his true love was his girls- wife Ariane, daughters Danielle & Emily, and mother Ellie. They were his whole world and he loved them without measure. He was their protector, their biggest fan, and the epitome of a husband and father.

Jeff continues to be loved and admired by all the people, large and small, that he has touched in both his personal and professional life. Many people have asked how they can help support the family of Coach Jeff Wilson. In response to that overwhelming show of love and concern, this account has been created to help fill the financial space created by Jeff’s passing.

Jeff and Ariane are devoted teachers and work additional hours as the directors of the after-school program at Freedom Elementary. They were in the process of preparing for their future and providing support to their amazing daughters as they continue their secondary education. All proceeds will go directly to the immediate family to assist them with expenses such as uncovered medical costs, counseling, and the day-to-day expenses that they have yet to face with a significant loss in family income. Your support is greatly appreciated as Jeff’s “girls” navigate through this difficult time and begin to heal and find their new normal.

The family is so grateful for the outpouring of love and support and respectfulness shown in allowing them to grieve as a family. This is what has kept them afloat. Please continue to lift Jeff’s family up in prayer.