The Longhorn community is rallying around one of Texas football’s most devoted fans after he passed away Oct. 31.
Scott Wilson spent a month in a hospital after a medical incident while en route to Jacksonville for Texas’ football game against Florida. Wilson dedicated his life to sports and attended 595 football games in a row over almost half a century. The 74-year-old is remembered for his love and dedication to the team.
Wilson graduated from UT in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He was well-known for his love of Texas football and baseball. Texas Gameday host Nick Shuley honored Wilson’s legacy at the home game against Vanderbilt on Nov. 1.
“Scott Wilson wasn’t just a fan, he was part of Texas history,” Shuley said on the show. “Through every inning and every snap, his passion never wavered.”
Scott Wilson’s sister, Nancy Wilson, wrote on Facebook that he passed peacefully, and thanked everyone who had sent thoughts and prayers.
“He passed as I sang ‘The Eyes of Texas,’” Nancy wrote on her brother’s Facebook page. “Gabriel’s Horn announced his arrival at St. Peter’s Gate.”
Amy Vacher, Wilson’s niece, said growing up with Wilson as her uncle was unique.
“He was always the fun uncle,” Vacher said. “I was always telling all my friends about him.”
At the game against Vanderbilt the day after Wilson’s passing, the video board displayed Wilson with one of his Longhorn-themed cars, and fans sang “The Eyes of Texas” in honor of him.
Vacher said her uncle’s devotion to the team was very special to the family. Vacher said while much of Wilson’s collection will be donated or sold, much will be kept by the family to cherish.
“His whole entire house is burnt orange,” Vacher said. “Every one of the cars since he’s been able to customize a car has been burnt orange. He has all three of the bedrooms full of memorabilia.”
Vacher said Wilson’s love passed down to her children. Vacher said her daughter spent her 13th birthday having a tour of her great-uncle’s house with her friends.
“My children would watch his passion, and he taught them so much about loving and loyalty to a team,” Vacher said. “To something bigger than yourself.”