Tracy Wilson was one of the contestants on season 2 of Alone, a reality TV show on the History Channel that challenges participants to survive in the wilderness with limited resources and no human contact. She was also a veteran, a former police officer, and a survival instructor. Sadly, she passed away at the age of 48 after a sudden illness on September 16, 2019 in Rexburg, Idaho. This article will pay tribute to her life, her achievements, and her legacy.
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A Military and Law Enforcement Background
Tracy Wilson was born in Madrid, Spain at Torrejon Air Base to a military family stationed overseas. Her family moved often, and eventually settled in South Carolina where she graduated from South Aiken High School. She followed in her family’s footsteps and quickly joined the armed forces after graduating high school. She served bravely in Saudi Arabia with the U.S. Air Force.
Wilson became a deputy with the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina when she returned from service. She was a well respected member of the police force and also worked as an officer with the New Ellenton and USC-Aiken Police Departments and Wackenhut at the Savannah River Site.
A Passion for Survival Skills
Though she was both a veteran and a former police officer, Wilson was most known as a survivalist. She appeared on season 2 of Alone on the History Channel. Fans of the show will remember Wilson’s tenacity as she bore through the show’s challenges. Season 2 set contestants to fend for themselves on Vancouver Island in Canada, where they were permitted to choose 10 survival tools before fighting the elements alone.
Wilson was ever positive and continued, “That island will renew my sense of hope in people as well as in myself.” She was also introspective as she considered the challenges of the tasks ahead of her. “Each person has to dig deep to get past whatever they have to endure to get where they want to be,” said Wilson. “I’m hoping I can put myself in the presence of mind to be accepting of whatever that island has to teach.”
Perhaps Wilson’s years of service in the Air Force and law enforcement taught Wilson these life lessons. Since her appearance on Alone, Wilson traveled across America teaching survival skills.
A Sudden and Tragic Loss
Tracy Wilson passed away unexpectedly on September 16, 2019 in Rexburg, Idaho. According to TV Shows Ace, she died after a sudden illness. The exact cause of death was not disclosed, but some sources speculated that it might have been related to her gender transition. Wilson was born as David Wilson Jr., but underwent surgery in Thailand in 2010 to become a woman. She was open about her identity and proud of who she was.
Wilson is survived by her parents, her two siblings, three children, and two grandchildren. She also left behind many friends, fans, and admirers who were inspired by her courage, resilience, and kindness. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Conclusion
Tracy Wilson was a remarkable woman who lived a full and adventurous life. She served her country, protected her community, challenged herself, and shared her knowledge with others. She was also a trailblazer for transgender rights and acceptance. Her death was a shock to many, but her memory will live on through her family, her students, and her fans. Rest in peace, Tracy Wilson.
