By Katharine Jefcoats

While Hannah Wilson is busy pursuing her dreams of traveling overseas and sharing God’s word, her dad, Wesley Wilson, serves their community as a police officer.

The family celebrates as Hannah Wilson graduates from high school

Officer Wilson has been with the Bartlett, Tenn., department almost 20 years, having entered the profession to support his young family.

However, he’s grown to embrace his duties to help people. He said watching Hannah grow in her love of God encourages him in his own faith.

“I am grateful for Hannah as her developing relationship with God inspires me in my own walk with Christ,” he said.

Officer Wilson is also a PBA member, a charter member of the Southwest Tennessee Chapter. Through his membership, Hannah is eligible for a scholarship to offset college expenses.

She is one of about two dozen students awarded one of those scholarships in 2024. She is pursuing her Christian ministry and discipleship degree at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge, Ark.

Hannah Wilson receives her PBA scholarship check

“The reason I choose this degree is because I have always enjoyed seeing others learn about Christ and see them experience something so good and to think there are so many people out there who haven't heard hurts me,” Hannah said. “If I have the ability and God has given me the gift to share the gospel then I am going to do just that.”

Hannah acknowledges her fears of the “what ifs” surrounding her dad’s profession but puts her apprehensions in God’s hands.

“I remember the first time I realized the dangers of his job; it was after he got hurt on duty fighting a suspect,” she said. “He had hurt his shoulder and ended up needing surgery. After a while, he was released back to work, and I was honestly scared because what if next time it isn't just an injury to his shoulder? What if next time it is him getting shot?

“As I got older, I started watching the news more and read of these stories of cops being killed just for being a cop or for just doing their jobs, you hear of the hate that people have towards cops,” continued Hannah. “As I have gotten older, I have become more anxious about his job, but I also know that God will protect him, and I pray for him every night and ask God to keep Him safe as he leaves for work the next morning. I am freed of my fears because I know my family serves a God who protects and loves us.”

Hannah played softball for the Lady Panthers at Bartlett High School and carried over her abilities to Williams as a pitcher for the Lady Eagles.

Hannah Wilson as a Lady Panther at Bartlett High School

Hannah said she is blessed to have a supportive father.

“My dad is one of my biggest inspirations, he is kind and loving and everything a kid would hope to have in a father,” she said. “He has coached me in sports and supported me in all my activities. He is quiet but genuine even when he has had a bad day at work, he never seems to bring it home.”

Officer Wilson holds equal pride in his goal-driven daughter and is excited for her future in spreading the word of God.

“Hannah is a fierce and determined individual who puts her mind to something and finds a way to make it happen,” he said. “She works hard at everything she does. Her love for Jesus is apparent in how she loves everyone she meets. She does not know a stranger and would take the clothing off her back if it meant helping someone.

“God has big plans for her, and I cannot wait to see what He has in store,” continued Officer Wilson. “The world may not be ready for her, but it will know her very soon and it will be a better place because of her relationship with God and how she will share that with everyone else.”