Jimmy Lee Wilson

Lt. Jimmy Wilson USN, 89, passed away on March 2, 2025, at his home of 34 years in Las Vegas, Nevada. Born in Shawnee, Oklahoma, to Sherman B. and Beulah Wilson. Jim spent his formative years in Yukon, Oklahoma, where he played on various sports teams at Yukon High School and formed lifelong friendships. He proudly attended Oklahoma University and was a devoted Sooners football fan, he always carried his love for his home state.

Jim's lifelong passion for aviation took flight when he became a Naval Cadet in Pensacola. He served aboard the USS Ranger as a Crusader fighter pilot for eight years. Unfulfilled by desk duty, he transitioned to a commercial aviation career, joining Trans World Airlines (TWA) as a pilot in 1964. He quickly rose to the rank of 747 Captain and spent the next 32 years in the skies until his mandatory retirement in 1996. Over the course of his career, he flew 40 different aircraft and was based in Kansas City (KCI), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and New York International (JFK-I). Whether in the Navy, the airline industry, or celebrating his 70th birthday in a former T-28 Navy trainer, flying was Jim's greatest joy.

Beyond aviation, Jim had a deep love for adventure, including scuba diving, boating, fishing, hunting, and traveling. Yet, his greatest happiness came from time spent with his family and friends. A skilled marksman and avid outdoorsman, he formed lasting bonds through shared experiences, always bringing humor and a knack for storytelling.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of over 50 years, Penny, who shared his love for travel and aviation as a longtime TWA flight attendant. Together, they explored the world and built a life filled with love and adventure. He also leaves behind his cherished children: Kendall Sue Muro (Ray), Ryan Wilson (Tomi), and Justin Wilson (Michele); his grandchildren: Gregg Romero, Jake Romero, Jack Wilson, Kaylee Wilson, and great-granddaughter, Zaylee Romero. He is also survived by his brother, Terry Wilson (Trisha), sisters, Jane Campbell and Carol Sue Olson, and many nieces and nephews who adored his stories. He was preceded in death by his older brothers, Lt. Myloe Wilson, USN, and Dale Wilson.

Jim touched countless lives with his quiet strength, courage, kindness, and humor. Deeply loved, he will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. He often said, "Just plant me, you can't live forever, things can change in a New York minute." They did. But he lived fully, and we find peace knowing he is now at rest.

A service will be held at Pacific Beach - La Jolla, 4710 Cass St., San Diego, California 92109, on Friday, April 18th, at 10:00AM, followed by burial at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122, at 1:15PM. A Celebration of Life is planned for later months in Desert Shores, Las Vegas.