Wilson L Bledsoe, Jr.'s Obituary
Wilson “King” Bledsoe, Jr., 75, of Chattanooga, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 27, 2025, in a local hospital, surrounded by the two people he loved most—his devoted wife and his beloved daughter. He was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on August 29, 1950, to Wilson Bledsoe, Sr. and Dorothy Heard.
Wilson met his future wife and lifelong partner, Serena Bledsoe, while attending junior high school. After graduating from Howard High School in 1969, they married and shared 56 years together, weathering life’s highs, lows, and everything in between with love, commitment, and strength. Together, they were blessed with their one and only loving daughter, Nataki Bledsoe, who was the pride and joy of his life.
Wilson was a proud Vietnam Veteran and a dedicated public servant, retiring after 17 years with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department, where he served as a corrections officer. He was known as a strong, no-nonsense man who believed firmly in doing things the right way — by the book. He gave respect freely to everyone he encountered, whether employee or inmate, and expected the same in return. His integrity, fairness, and seriousness about his duty earned him deep respect.
Though tough on the outside, Wilson was gentle and loving at heart. Family was deeply important to him, and he worked tirelessly to support his family. He quietly looked after his brothers, doing whatever they needed — often without anyone else knowing. Steel on the outside, but warm and compassionate within.
Wilson enjoyed his cognac and quiet evenings at home with his family. He was a serious man about serious matters, but once he let you in, he revealed a surprising side — funny, talkative, and a friend. Within his family, he was the comedian, bringing laughter in his own understated way.
Though not a religious man himself, Wilson deeply respected and supported his wife and daughter in their faithful service to Jehovah God, including their preaching activities as Jehovah’s Witnesses. He stood behind them always, with love and quiet pride.
Wilson was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson Bledsoe, Sr. and Dorothy Heard; his brothers, Horace Bledsoe and Allen “Rabbit” Bledsoe; and his sister, Betty Jean Brooks.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Serena Bledsoe; and his beloved daughter, Nataki Bledsoe, both of Chattanooga; his brothers, Morris (Beretta) Duckett of Smyrna, TN, Gregory Duckett of Chattanooga, and Warren Artego (Philana) Duckett of Smyrna; along with a host of nieces; nephews; cousins and friends.
A man of strength, integrity, and quiet love —he served his country, protected his family, and will never be forgotten.
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Inurnment for Wilson will be Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
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