It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Harry Edward Wilson "Light Horse" at the age of 79. Harry passed away on October 14, 2023, in Philadelphia, PA, after a long battle with illness. Harry was born on September 28, 1944, to Billie Lou and John "Stoney" Wilson in Steubenville, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Kim Lewis and Barbara Wilson; brother John Rocky Wilson; and grandmother Ethel Johnson.

In his younger years, Harry was a talented football player. He excelled in the sport and became one of the rare sophomores to dress varsity in 1960 when he entered Steubenville High School "Big Red". He became the starting tailback in 1961 and scored 18 touchdowns. In 1962, he outdid himself with 23 touchdowns, 1,756 yards rushing (10 games), and was named Ohio's Big School Back of the Year.

After graduating from Big Red, Harry went to the University of Nebraska, where he continued to excel in football. He was a first-team All-Big Eight pick and an honorable mention UPI All-American as a senior in 1966. He played three straight New Year's Day bowls, including Nebraska's first Cotton and Sugar bowls, as well as a national championship game appearance in the Orange Bowl (1965). As a senior, he led them to a 9-2 record that included a 6-1 conference mark and NU's 4th consecutive Big Eight crown. He closed his college career with an appearance in the Senior Bowl. While at the University of Nebraska, Harry also pledged to the fraternity of KAPPA ALPHA PSI, EDA chapter in 1965.

Harry was chosen in the 1967 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, where he spent three seasons before retiring due to a knee injury. Harry is survived by his wife, Sarah Johnson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; his son, Christopher (Dawn); three grandkids, Christopher Jr., Michael, and Raj-nee; and six great-grandchildren, all of Columbus, Ohio. He also leaves behind nieces Gail Wilson and Lori Lewis of Cincinnati, Ohio; nephew Kent R Lewis II (Sandy) of Mingo Jct, Ohio; great-nephews Christian Rayne of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Kent "Tre" Lewis (Tabitha) of Mingo Jct, Ohio; as well as many other family members and friends. Special childhood and life friends include Raymond Terry, Reynard Horston, Nick Barnes, Reno Saccoccia, Pete Barren, Johnny Torcasio, and Becky Bryan.

The family of Harry E. Wilson wants to express their gratitude for the kindness, generosity, and love they have been shown during this difficult time. They sincerely thank Gregory-Martin Funeral Home for their support and assistance. They also thank Steubenville High School, the Alumni, and the Big Red Booster Club, as well as all their friends and family. Harry can now rest in peace with his mom, sisters, and brothers.

The family has scheduled a gathering of friends on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Gregory-Martin Chapel located at 255 S. 7th Street in Steubenville, Ohio. This will be followed by a life celebration of Harry's achievements and memories. If you would like to express your condolences to the family, you can do so online at gregorymartinfh.com.