Ben Austin Wilson

November 1, 1926 – April 23, 2013

Mr. Wilson, 86, passed away peacefully at his home April 23 in the presence of his family after a lengthy illness.

He was born November 1, 1926, in Lincoln County, N.C., the son of the late Ruffin L. and Ruth Stamey Wilson. He served with distinction in the U.S. Navy and was a proud veteran of World War II and the Korean War.

Mr. Wilson retired in 1985 after a 36-year career with National Linen Service. In retirement he was a devoted volunteer with the American Red Cross, an active member of Assurance United Methodist Church, and an avid golfer.

He was predeceased by a sister Louise Burgin and two brothers, Gene and Ralph Wilson.

Mr. Wilson is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years Dorothy H. Wilson. In addition he is survived by his children, Cindy Mullis and husband, Mike of Charlotte, N.C., Ron Wilson and wife, Susan and Jerry Wilson and wife Krista, all of Matthews, N.C. and Gary Wilson and wife, Tammy of Belmont, N.C. Also surviving him are seven grandchildren , Steve Smith and David Wilson of Charlotte N.C., Christina Arethas Jordan and husband, Eric of New York City, Travis Wilson and wife, Sarah, and Kayla Wilson, all of Belmont, N.C., Evan Wilson of Matthews, N.C., Holly Lamberts and husband Adam, of Indian Land, S.C.; and two great-grandchildren: Talya Smith of Stanly, N.C.; and Gabriel Jordan of New York City.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Forest Lawn West Funeral Home, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, N.C., 28208. Funeral service will be held Friday, April 26, at 1:30 p.m. at Assurance United Methodist Church, 9700 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road, Huntersville, N.C., 28078, with the Rev. Chris Westmoreland and Rev. Daniel Corpening officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery with Military Honors

Memorials may be sent to: Assurance United Methodist Church, 9700 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Rd., Huntersville, N.C., 28078; or Hospice & Palliative Care of the Charlotte Region, 1420 East Seventh Street, Charlotte, N.C., 28204. Offer condolences through wwww.forestlawnwesst.com (704)395-0055