Orville Wilson

Master Sergeant Orville “Willie” Alexander Wilson (Retired) (aka “Top”) was born October 5, 1946 in Brownstown, Jamaica. He was the son of the late Nathan Wilson (aka Nathan Green Sr.) and late Daisy "Olive" Smith. He touched the lives of many with his dedication, strength, and indomitable spirit.

Orville led a remarkable life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his passions. He immigrated to the United States when he was 18 to live in Boston, MA, with his father. He joined the US Army in 1968, his tenure in the army was best characterized by his quote "if I tell you I'd have to kill you." So though we may not know the specifics of his duties, we know his impact was tremendous to his brothers in arms and for his country. In 1972, Orville married Dorothy Dezelle and had one child, Marcia Wilson. He began employment at Massport Authority in 1985. At that time he was also working in the Army Reserves teaching leadership skills to Non-Commissioned Officer candidates at various levels until his retirement in 1998, as the Director of the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy at Fort Devens, MA. Retirement from Massport Authority as the Deputy Director of Property Management later followed in 2005. His military background and education received at the University of Virginia Institute for Professional Development contributed to Orville being known as a hardworking leader. He had two favorite sayings: "I tell it to you straight, and that's how I operate" and "First you always have to have a plan." His dedication and hard work in his field left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with him. His accomplishments were a testament to his perseverance and determination.

In addition to always helping people in need, Orville was known to leave big tips wherever he went. He won two Black Achievers awards, both for helping black youth in Boston. His pastimes included watching sports, and he always rooted for his favorite teams: the Boston Red Sox, the Boston Celtics, and the New England Patriots. His legacy of generosity and compassion will continue to make a difference in the lives of others through these contributions. He may be gone from our sight, but his spirit will forever remain in our hearts, a shining example of a life well-lived and a person deeply loved.

Orville was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law: James Robinson, Earl Dezelle, and Thomas Plowden.

He leaves to cherish his fondest memories: his beloved wife Dorothy Wilson of Smyrna, GA; daughter Marcia Wilson of Moncks Corner, SC; two brothers, Nathan (Patricia) Green Jr. of Darien, GA, and Roy (Dee) Green of Boston, MA; brothers-in-law John (Patricia) Dezelle Jr. and Barry Dezelle of Moncks Corner, SC; sisters-in-law Alice Plowden and Lorraine Robinson of Moncks Corner, SC, and Bertha Dezelle and Lorraine Garrett of Boston, MA; granddaughters Chyunna Brown of Miami, FL, Tyenna (Airman Brendan) Martinez of Minot, ND, and Shelise Brown of Atlanta, GA; great-granddaughters A'yanna and Melody Brown of Atlanta, GA, and Emerald Martinez of Minot, ND; god-daughters Charmia Horton and Tia Goodman; numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces; and many friends, including the Goodman family of Milton, MA.

Orville's memory will be cherished by his friends and family for his unwavering kindness, discipline and sense of humor. He was a confidant, a mentor, and a dear friend to many, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Rest in peace, Master Sergeant Orville "Willie" Wilson. Your strength, wisdom, and sacrifices will be forever immortalized in our hearts and you will be profoundly missed.

Celebration of Life Services for Orville Wilson Will be held on Friday, November 10, 2023 at 1:00 PM. These services will be recorded and streamed live. If the event is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire event will be uploaded and available to view later in the day. Please copy and paste the link to share, or simply click on the link to view the event.

https://vimeo.com/event/3864890

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hmpattersoncantonhill.com for the Wilson family.