Charles Wilson

Charles F. Wilson Jr., was born Oct. 21, 1929 to Floyd and Bess Wilson in Blytheville, AR. He moved to Hot Springs when he was two years old and graduated from Hot Springs High School in 1947. One of few people who served in three branches of the service, he was in the Marine Corps from 1948 until 1950 and then went to Henderson State University where he received a commission in the Army in 1952 through the ROTC. After graduation he had his commission transferred to the Arkansas Air National Guard and was able to achieve a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. In 1957 Charlie joined Ideal Cement Company in sales, becoming the sales manager of the Arkansas division and later retiring after 35 years as vice-president of special products. Predeceased by his parents and his sister Ann Thomas, he is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dale Reaves Wilson, sister, Jane Atchley, and three sons, Kent Wilson and his wife Sandra of Maumelle, Craig Wilson and his wife Lisa of Bella Vista, and David Wilson of Little Rock. He leaves behind also his four grandchildren, Emily Wilson Tucker, Katie Wilson, and Adam Wilson of Little Rock and Jordan Wilson and her mother Kirsten Kennedy of North Branch, Minnesota. He also leaves two precious great-grandchildren, Layne and Grey Tucker. After retirement Charlie returned to his love of music and achieved a position in the Stardust Big Band where he preformed for over 15 years. He loved every minute of this part of his life and all his fellow musicians. His memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 30th by the Rev. CB Baker at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church with a reception to follow in the Parish Hall. Memorials may be made to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 228 Spring St., Hot Springs, AR 71901. Guests may register at www.grossfuneralhome.com