Breckenridge Texan

By Carla McKeown and Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan

Many people in the Breckenridge community are reeling from yesterday’s death of Shalon Taylor Wilson, the director of the Breckenridge Fine Arts Center.

The Breckenridge Police Department is investigating the death of Wilson, who was found dead at her home on Sunday evening, Feb. 18. At this time, the police do not believe foul play is involved.

“I’ve written lots of stories in my day, but this one hurts. Shalon was a real friend to Carla and me and the Breckenridge Texan,” said Breckenridge Texan Publisher Tony Pilkington. “She made a great impact on this community, and her loss will be felt deeply.”

As news of Wilson’s death spread throughout the community, her friends took to social media to express their shock and grief over her death.

County Judge Michael Roach penned a poem in her honor:

In hues of passion, my friend did create,
A canvas filled with love, her fate.
An artist’s heart, with strokes so bold,
Her gentle spirit, a sight to behold.

With every brushstroke, she’d impart,
Encouragement to every heart.
Through trials deep and darkness grim,
She’d whisper, “Hold on, hope will win.”

To those who felt the weight of despair,
She’d offer solace, showing care.
“Though shadows loom and clouds may cease,
In you resides a boundless peace.”

For those who wrestled with the night,
She’d shine a beacon, burning bright.
“Though the journey’s long and steep,
Your worth, my friend, is yours to keep.”

And in the end, when morning broke,
She found her joy, bespoke.
Her soul now dances, joy released,
In her “morning,” she found peace.

         — Michael Roach

Some of the comments posted in response to Roach’s poem include:

“Beautiful words for a beautiful person. Thank you for this tribute to her. She will be dearly missed and was loved by many.” — Jaclyn Morehart

“The most beautiful soul. Thankful for the blessing of knowing her.” — Chelsey McClymond

“One of the sweetest ladies I have known. I pray for the family.” — Lynna Lobstein

“This is a beautiful tribute to a beautiful soul. I am shattered.” — Amy Judkins

Wilson’s obituary is currently pending with Morehart Mortuary.

According to a news release from the BPD, the police responded to the 400 block of North Parks Street on a medical call involving a gunshot wound. On arrival, officers were met by a man who reported that his daughter, who lives at the residence, was deceased in the backyard. The BPD’s dispatch report shows that the call was received at 8:32 p.m. and that emergency responders arrived two minutes later.

The victim, who was identified as 47- year-old Wilson, was found deceased with a gunshot wound, according to the news release. Her body was transported to the Dallas County Medical Examiner’s office for further investigation. The Stephens County Sheriff’s Office and the Justice of the Peace also responded to the scene.

Breckenridge’s Interim Police Chief Tommy Williams said Monday afternoon that although the investigation is ongoing, the police have not found any evidence of foul play at this time. “It points to a self-inflicted wound, but we’re going to wait for the medical examiner to tell us for sure,” Williams said.

Police are continuing to investigate the death. Anyone with information should contact the Breckenridge Police Department at 254-559-2211.

Cutline, top photo: Last November, Shalon Wilson agreed to pose for a picture among the quilts on display at the Breckenridge Fine Arts Center, where she served as the director. Her death on Sunday, Feb. 18, has impacted many people in the community. (Photo by Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan)