James Oren Wilson, age 93 of Rutherfordton, NC, passed away Wednesday, August 9, 2023 at Rutherford Regional Medical Center.
He was born August 16, 1929 in Cleveland County to the late Zeb Wilson and the late Lillian Lytle Wilson. He served in the US Navy from 1946 to 1976 and loved to tell war stories to anyone that would listen. According to the family, he was the last remaining veteran in Rutherford County that served in WW2, Korea and Vietnam. He enjoyed playing golf, going to the Tartan restaurant in Linville, reading about history, writing poems and visiting son in Wisconsin. James also enjoyed working on claims and interacting with staff at local VA office and was a Shriner of the 32nd Scottish rite, Pearl City, Hawaii.
He is survived by his sons; Brian Wilson of Rutherfordton, and Darryl Wilson and wife Kris of Minocqua, WI, niece Susie Morgan and husband David of Inman, SC. Former wife Sandra Spicer of Portage, WI.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister Mary Wilson.
Graveside services were held August 12 at Cliffside Cemetery with Rev. Mike Elgin officiating. Military honors were accorded by Rutherford County Honor Guard.