David Wilson

David Wilson, 68, rode his final trail into the arms of his Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, hard work, and the cowboy way of life he cherished every single day. A graveside service is scheduled for 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Wilson Ranch Cemetery, Artesia, NM. 

If you ever met David, you never forgot him. With his signature cowboy hat, cowboy boots, big mustache, full beard, and even bigger personality, he had a way of filling every room with laughter. He was the kind of man people naturally gathered around—quick with a story, always ready for a joke, and someone who truly loved life. He lived boldly, laughed often, and never met a stranger.

David was a cowboy through and through. Rodeo wasn’t simply something he did—it was who he was. Few things brought him more joy than teaching young cowboys the art of steer wrestling, passing down his knowledge and encouraging the next generation to pursue their dreams. One of the greatest joys of his life was being able to rodeo with his entire family. Of all the accomplishments in his life, one dream held a special place in his heart: competing in steer wrestling alongside his son, Justin.

There was nothing that made David prouder than entering the arena with his boy. He also loved taking his children, Justin and Lacy, to rodeos and took great pride in watching Lacy's accomplishments in the arena. He had a remarkable gift with horses. Friends and neighbors knew that if a horse had a problem, David could often fix it in just minutes. He spent countless days working in the oilfield, then came home to work horses, practice, or tend the ranch.

Hard work was simply how he lived. Later in life, he found joy riding his motorcycle, embracing the same freedom and adventure that had always defined him. Above all else, David was a man of unwavering faith. As a preacher, he led countless people to Christ, shared God's Word with humility, and officiated many weddings. His faith was reflected in the way he loved people and served his family.

David was preceded in death by his beloved parents, B.R. and Wanda Wilson. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 40 years, Diana; his daughter, Lacy; his son, Justin, and his wife, Copper; along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, rodeo family, and countless lives forever changed by his friendship, mentorship, and ministry.

“Well done, good and faithful servant. Ride easy, Cowboy. Until we meet again.”

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13