The Grand Rivers community continues to honor the life and legacy of Amelia Brown Wilson, a beloved leader, advocate, and friend whose light continues to inspire others through Amelia’s Run—a fall race set for this Saturday from 7 AM until 1 PM beginning at the Grand Rivers Tourism Office.
It is benefiting Donate Life Kentucky and the Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates.
A three-time graduate of the University of Kentucky, Amelia earned her bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences (2003), a master’s in community and leadership development (2006), and a doctorate in higher education administration (2011).
During her time at UK, she was deeply involved in campus life—serving as a student senator, university ambassador coordinator, vice president of Delta Gamma sorority, and being named the 2003 Homecoming Queen. She later received the Joseph T. Burch Young Alumni Award (2011) and the Distinguished Service Award (2021) for her contributions to the university and community.
Professionally, Amelia made a significant impact as Director of Agritourism for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and later as a field representative for U.S. Congressman James Comer.
Amelia’s story of perseverance began early—diagnosed with liver disease at 19, she received a lifesaving liver transplant in 2005 while a UK student. She and her family expressed deep gratitude to her donor, 13-year-old John Cody Conley of West Virginia, whose gift of life gave her many more years to inspire others.
Amelia died June 25, 2021, age 39, following a battle with post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, a cancer affecting transplant recipients. She lived in Grand Rivers with her husband, City of Cadiz Attorney Allen Wilson, where both were active members of the Grand Rivers Chamber of Commerce, Tourism, and community initiatives.
Friends and neighbors remember Amelia for her radiant smile, kindness, and commitment to helping others.
Her legacy of advocacy for organ donation inspired the transformation of the local fall race into Amelia’s Run—a fundraising and awareness event supporting the mission of KODA and Donate Life Kentucky, organizations devoted to saving lives through organ and tissue donation, education, and research.
This year’s race includes 10K, 5K, and Kids’ Fun Run options, along with virtual participation for those unable to attend in person. Volunteers from Grand Rivers—many of whom knew Amelia personally—organize the event to celebrate her enduring spirit and to continue her mission of spreading hope, love, and life through organ donation.
Learn more or register: runsignup.com/Race/KY/GrandRivers/AmeliaBWilsonLBLRun
