James Burton Wilson

AUGUST 21, 1925- JUNE 11, 2011

James Burton "Jim" Wilson, 85 years old, passed away Saturday, June 11, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. He was born in Hendersonville, N.C, and moved to Adrian, Michigan while very young.

A graduate of Adrian High School, and 3 sport letterman, he joined the U.S. Army during WWII. He was awarded the Bronze Star along with numerous other citations while serving with the 260th Combat Engineer Battalion. In 1947 he married Betty Jane Hill of Houston and she passed away in 1996.

They had three children, James Jr, Patti Wade and Mark. Jim was President of the Southwest Division of Dillard's during the companies' greatest growth years and retired in 1991. From there he pursued a second career as a San Antonio Spurs fan and rancher, winning the "Rancher of the Year" for McMullen Co.

Jim led an active and full life, enjoying hunting and fishing, travelling and sports. His charitable generosity and willingness to help others, his love and care for his family and sense of humor led to his nickname: "Big Daddy".

Big Daddy is survived by his children and grandchildren, Taylor Wilson of New Braunfels, Jared Wilson of Taos, N.M., Colin Wilson of Lubbock, Michael Wade, Katie Wade, Anna Wilson and Wes Wilson of Dallas; daughters-in-law, Tess Wilson and Ellen Wilson; and beloved pets, Velma and Bubba.

SERVICE

FRIDAY

JUNE 17, 2011

3:00 P.M.

HOLY CROSS MAUSOLEUM

The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the cemetery where Mr. Wilson's parents lie: Weston Cemetery, Attn. Margie Keller, 3650 Weston Road, Sand Creek, Michigan 49279. Entombment in Holy Cross Mausoleum.