Richard G. Wilson

Of Jackson, passed away on Saturday, November 26, 2011 at the age of 88. He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Gloria A. Wilson and grandson, Kyle Ames. He is survived by his four children, Greg Wilson, Patricia Ames, Rick (Lauren) Wilson and John Wilson; six grandchildren, Heather (Randy) Whisman, Lisa (Marcus) Burlingame, Travis Denton, Andrew (Laura) Wilson, Erik Wilson and Kassidy Ames; six great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and special friends. Richard was one of five children born to Charles and Jeannette Wilson in Evanston, IL. After graduating high school he proudly served his country during World War II and the Korean War with the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force. He later was involved with Chicago area veteran organizations and the Richard F. Smith Post No. 29 in Jackson. After graduating from the Chicago Conservatory of Music where he met his wife Gloria, Richard moved to Jackson in 1957 to manage West Point Grocery with his father-in-law, Nelson "Squeak" Hodges. After the grocery business, he was employed with John Hancock Insurance and Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home. Richard belonged to and attended Queens Parish where he also directed the church choir for twenty-five years. As one of the founding members of both Clark Lake Players and Jackson Musical Theater, he directed and acted in numerous musical productions and stage plays throughout Jackson County. Richard's passionate involvement with theatre and other local organizations allowed him the opportunity to develop lasting memorable friendships that he always cherished. Richard will be sadly missed by his family and friends. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. with Father Tim McDonald officiating. Family will receive friends for visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. and again on Wednesday at the Church from 10:00 until the time of service. There will be a Rosary service at the funeral home on Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest in Roseland Memorial Garden with military honors. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Y.M.C.A or Kyle Ames Scholarship fund at Hanover High School in his honor.