Sports and entertainment executive Larry Wilson – a Memphis native who promoted the first events at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena (then Gaylord Entertainment Center), and recently served as Vice President of Operations for the Jacksonville Jaguars – died November 14 at age 52.
Wilson joined the Gaylord Entertainment Center team in 1997 and served as Director of Event Services and Convention Sales, promoting the brand-new venue’s first big events, including the GMA Dove Awards and a concert by Garth Brooks. He went on to management roles at numerous large venues, including the Richmond Coliseum and John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville, Virginia.
In 2017, Wilson worked on “A Concert For Charlottesville,” an all-star event led by Dave Matthews Band to raise funds for those killed and injured during the “Unite The Right” Rally in Charlottesville.
Wilson was a Regional Vice President for SMG before moving to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018. He left the organization earlier this year to become President of Ignite Sports and Entertainment.
Friend Todd Hutchison of Hutch Entertainment said Wilson “approached each day as a new beginning and always remained positive.”
“Larry lived by the motto ‘Be Kind,’ and he spread love and cheer everywhere he went. He will be missed.”
Wilson is survived by sons Jack and Trace; parents Larry and Barbara Wilson; and his brother (Mr. and Mrs. Brian Wilson).
A “Celebration of Live” – reflecting Wilson’s career in the live events space – will be held at the Jaguars’ TIAA Bank Field Terrace Suites on December 4.
