Joseph Richard Wilson was born in Akron Ohio on March 9, 1929, in an upstairs bedroom at 425 Robert Street to the late John D. Wilson and Rosa Odessa (McCormick) Wilson. He received his formal education from Robinson Elementary, Goodyear Junior High School and East High School. At the age of 16, he decided to drop out of high school in pursuit of a better life and joined the Army (near the end of World War II). After 2 years, he reenlisted in the Air Force where he served in the Korean War. After which he completed the remainder of his military career (23 years).
In pursuit of excellence, Joseph was determined to complete his educational journey. He went back to school to get his high school diploma so his first step was to get his GED. After receiving his GED, he went into the “The Bootstrap” Program at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and got his Undergraduate Degree. He then completed his Master’s Degree at Central Michigan University.
In 1955, he met his soulmate Vivian Cash. After his uncle gave him her number the two started their courtship. After writing letters to each other for a year they had their first date in New York City. The two were joined in Holy Matrimony on June 1, 1957 in Bronx, New York. They moved to Scott Air Force Base in Belleville, Illinois where they both took up bowling as a hobby they enjoyed together. From there they were transferred to Tokyo Japan, Bellevue Nebraska, and finally Marietta Georgia. Their love for each other lasted for 65 years until the time of his death.
Joseph retired as a Master Sergeant from the Airforce (SAC HQ) in Omaha, Nebraska and worked for the Army Corps of Engineers. He was transferred to the Army Corps at Fort McPherson in Atlanta where he worked until his second retirement.
He had many interests, including bowling, gardening, chess and photography. And he loved his Ohio State Buckeyes. Being a father and grandfather, and spending time with family, were his greatest joys and accomplishments. Additionally, he became a Mason in 1985 where he remained until his death. He cherished family and instilled the value of family in all he encountered.
Preceding Joseph Wilson in transition are his father JD Wilson, mother Rosa Odessa (McCormick) Wilson, sister, Evelyn Laster, sons Grady Maxwell, Sr., Michael Brown, Sr., and daughter Josette Maxwell.
Those left behind to cherish his memories are his wife Vivian Wilson, daughter Kathy Wilson-Duprey (Michael) and son Broderick Maxwell (Mona), and a cherished group of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved him dearly.
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