The City of Gadsden is grieving the loss of Jason Wilson, a District 5 city councilman and founder of Back Forty Beer, who died Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at the age of 46. His death has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from city officials, fellow council members, friends, business associates, and residents who knew him through his public service and work in the community.

Wilson’s years in public office were marked by a strong commitment to Gadsden and an interest in the city’s future. Those who worked alongside him remembered him as someone willing to think ambitiously about what the community could become.

Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford described Wilson’s death as a major loss for the city, emphasizing the councilman’s passion for Gadsden and his dedication to its residents. The mayor also expressed condolences to Wilson’s wife, Jessica, as well as his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.

A Life of Service to Gadsden

Wilson’s impact extended beyond his position on the city council. Gadsden City Council President Kent Back reflected on the years they spent serving together, remembering Wilson as a person who genuinely cared about the community and wanted to contribute to its improvement.

His public service became an important part of his legacy, but Wilson was also known through his entrepreneurial work and connections throughout the region. As the founder of Back Forty Beer, he built a business presence that further connected him with people beyond the political sphere.

One particularly meaningful aspect of the tributes following his death was the decision to become an organ donor. According to city officials, Wilson’s choice to help others even at the end of his life reflected the generosity that colleagues associated with him.

Family and Community Remember Jason Wilson

Wilson’s death has left his wife, Jessica, family members, friends, and colleagues facing a profound loss. City officials noted that Jessica understood her husband’s vision and hopes for Gadsden and indicated that she is willing to serve the remainder of his current council term if selected by the City Council.

His passing has also had an immediate effect on the District 5 political landscape. Candidates Curtis Fail and Joey Nichols reportedly withdrew from the election in honor of Wilson and out of respect for his family.

For residents who knew Wilson through city government, local business, or community activities, his death represents the loss of a familiar figure who devoted significant time to Gadsden.

Jason Wilson’s Legacy

Although the circumstances surrounding Jason Wilson’s death have not been detailed in the information provided, the response from Gadsden officials has focused on remembering his service, ideas, generosity, and commitment to the city.

His legacy will remain connected to the people and causes he supported, the years he spent serving District 5, and the relationships he established throughout the community. The decision to become an organ donor has also become part of the story of how he continued to give to others.

As Gadsden mourns, family members, friends, fellow council members, and residents are remembering Jason Wilson not simply for the position he held, but for the relationships he formed and the vision he brought to the community.

Jason Wilson will be deeply missed by the Gadsden community. His family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him are being remembered during this difficult time as they honor his life and legacy.