Earl Arthur Wilcox

Earl Arthur Wilcox, 82, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2025, while in Arizona on his annual trip home to visit his family. Born on January 20, 1943, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to the late Donald Earl Wilcox and the late Betty Jo Nash. Earl lived a life filled with kindness, devotion, laughter, and an unwavering love for those around him.

To know Earl was to know joy. He had a rare and wonderful gift for making people feel welcome, whether through a warm conversation, a hearty meal, or one of his signature jokes. His Love Language was food, and nothing made him happier than gathering people together around the table or the fire. He believed in the power of connection and spent much of his life fostering it, founding Empty-Nesters and Active Nesters, two beloved traditions that brought people closer. Empty-Nesters provided companionship and community to those entering a new phase of life with children leaving the nest, strengthening friendships, and creating bonds that would last a lifetime. Active Nesters focused on bringing families together who may still have children at home but were almost there, ensuring that every person felt loved and included. Earl’s presence made every gathering feel like home.

His family was the greatest joy of his life. To his many grandchildren, he was lovingly known as "Papa!", a name spoken with admiration, gratitude, and endless love. He cherished every moment spent with them, embracing his role as both a guiding hand and a source of endless laughter. He was also known as "Santa on the Polar Express Train," bringing joy to children and adults alike with his twinkling eyes and his warm Christmas spirit. Above all, Earl was a man of love and devotion. After the passing of his beloved wife, Madelon “Maddie” Gay Fiori-Wilcox, in 2021, he dedicated his life to lifting others up, always keeping her memory alive. He often spoke of her with tenderness, finding comfort in the knowledge that their love was eternal. Now, they are reunited, (as Santa and Mrs. Claus) side by side once more.

A man of deep faith, Earl was raised Catholic, attending Brophy High School and College Preparatory Schools as a child and young man. He graduated with a BS Degree in Accounting from Northern Arizona University. He joined and became a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a lifelong passion for family history. He found immense joy in discovering the stories of those who came before him and ensured their legacies would never be forgotten. He was also a proud member of the NRA and found peace in the freedoms everyone enjoys in the (greatest country in the world) USA.

All who knew Earl could attest to his love for the outdoors. Whether walking in nature, raising chickens with his beloved dog Pixie always two steps behind, or tending to his herb and vegetable garden, he found great peace in the simple joys of life. Earl ensured that his animals were cared for in his absence by employing a young boy in PA to come over each day to feed and care for them while he lived in AZ part-time, and they could share in their bounty. Pixie is adjusting to life in AZ again living with Marissa and her family.

Earl is survived by his children, Karrey (Al) Miller, Shauna Burleson, Michael-Ray Burleson, Damon Fiori, Jared (Aom) Fiori, Jenna (Edwin) Rushton, Alena Fiori, Blake (Rachel) Wilcox, and Marissa (Bryan) Messier. He was preceded in death by his beloved siblings, Raymond, Ron (Kim), and Lois (Geno). He leaves behind his dear sister, Vonie (Bob) Gunnison, along with 31 cherished grandchildren and 27 precious great-grandchildren, each of whom he adored beyond measure.

Though he is no longer here in body, his spirit will live on in the laughter of his family, in the friendships he nurtured, in the food shared around the tables and campfires, and in the countless lives he touched. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will always be remembered.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Earls life on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 10am to 11am, at The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints, 2765 Maplevale Road, Brookville, PA 15825. A funeral service will be held immediately following the viewing, also at the church, beginning at 11am and officiated by Bishop Jeff Seibach. Services have been entrusted to McKinney - d'Argy Funeral Home, 345 Main Street, Brookville, PA 15825. Following the service, Earl will be laid to rest beside his beloved Maddie at Brookville Cemetery, Brookville, Jefferson County, PA.

For additional service details and to share condolences, please visit www.dargyfh.com.