Illustrious Sir Jerry Louis Wilson, PP

October 10, 1943 - February 11, 2026

Potentate of Medinah Shrine - Addison, IL in 2010

Jerry Louis Wilson put down his Masonic tools and passed away on 11 February 2026 at the age of 82. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on 02 October 1943. Jerry grew up in Chicago, and attended the Art Institute of Chicago for a short period of time before going to work for his father at Triangle Decorating Company. He eventually struck out on his own, working for Pittsburgh Paints and Dulux Paints in the greater Chicago area. He was an avid and dedicated Mason, with lifelong memberships in the Blue Lodge, Scottish Rite, and York Rite. His passion was the Medinah Shriners where he spent a large portion of his time and energies, holding a number of positions within that organization eventually becoming Potentate in 2010, assisted by his Lady Pat Biedar. Jerry is remembered for his humor, love of family, superb ballroom dancing skills (the only Wilson to have developed such a unique skillset), and his oftentimes very direct and plainspoken language, making him stand out in any crowd. 

He was predeceased by his parents George Wilson of Colorado and Gladys Wilson of Chicago, his daughter Cynthia Elizabeth Wilson, and his sister Pam Patterson.  

He is survived by his son Christopher Louis Wilson (Gina) of Culpeper, Virginia; three grandchildren Joshua Wilson (Lauren), Krystina Giles (Brandon), and Isaac Wilson; five great grandchildren Gwendolin Giles, Alice Giles, Auron Wilson, Onyx Wilson, and Everest Wilson; fraternal twin brother Jay Wilson (PK) of Nathrop, Colorado, and sister Whitney Pierson of Montana. 

Illustrious Sir Gary Alan Popp, PP

January 24, 1956 – March 31, 2026

Potentate of Ainad Shrine - East St Louis, IL in 2020

Gary was born January 24, 1956, in Belleville, IL to Robert T. and Betty J. (Hopfinger) Popp. He was preceded in death by his father in February 2026.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Mary (Tylka) Popp, of Millstadt, IL. They were married on October 8, 1976 in Belleville, IL. Together, they shared nearly 50 years of marriage.

Also surviving is his mother, Betty Popp of Belleville, IL; his three daughters, Jennifer (Darren) Vines of Norris City, IL, Melissa (Jeremie) Veto of Waterloo, IL, and Kelly (Craig) Archer of Millstadt, IL; beloved grandchildren, Carlie Davis, Sydnee Davis, Chase Veto, Nolan Veto, Blaine Archer and Bryson Archer; and his one sister, Nancy (Jerry) Davee of Belleville, IL; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Gary spent 43 years as a devoted employee, working as the Superintendent of Operations with Dignity Memorial. His devotion to his job, the people he mentored throughout the years, his hard work and dedication will never be forgotten.

Gary served his community in many capacities over the years, including his memberships with Elks Lodge #664, coronated a 33 Degree in 2000, Provost Guard, Ma Cli Bo, Directors Staff, Monroe County Shrine Club, Collinsville Shrine Club and Royal Order of the Jesters Court #86. He held positions as Past Master of St. Clair Lodge #24 in 1985, Most Wise Master of John M. Pearson Chapter of Rose Croix from 1995-1996, Commander in Chief Mississippi Valley Consistory from 2005-2007, and Potentate of Ainad Shriners in 2020.

When Gary was not working or spending his time serving others, he loved fishing, hunting, and both fixing and riding four wheelers. He always enjoyed being outdoors and the simpler things that life had to offer.

Above all else, Gary loved his wife, children and grandchildren. He always found an opportunity to teach and guide his grandchildren. His legacy will live on in the many capacities in which he served others and lived his life. He will truly be missed and never forgotten.