Welcome W. Wilson Sr.

Welcome Wade Wilson Sr. (March 17, 1928 – February 16, 2024) was an American real estate developer, businessman, civic leader, and former chairman of the University of Houston System Board of Regents. He was the founder and longtime chairman of Houston-based Welcome Group LLC, a commercial real estate development and investment firm focused on industrial, manufacturing, distribution, and specialized commercial properties across Texas and the Southeastern United States. He later enrolled at the University of Houston, where he studied business administration and worked for the student newspaper, The Cougar, serving in advertising sales and later as business manager. In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him as Special Ambassador to Nicaragua.

Wilson also served as chairman of an American Stock Exchange-listed company, owned interests in Houston-area banks, and at one point held a 10% ownership stake in the Houston Astros baseball team while serving on its board of directors.

Wilson additionally served as director emeritus of the Greater Houston Partnership and chaired its higher education committee for many years.

Awards and achievements Wilson received numerous honors during his career, including:

University of Houston Distinguished Alumnus Award (1970) Lifetime Achievement Award from the Houston Business Journal Arthur S. Flemming Award for federal service

Personal life and death Wilson and his wife, Joanne Guest Wilson, had five children. Their daughter Pamela Francis Wilson predeceased him.

Wilson died in Houston on February 16, 2024, at the age of 95.