Robert Allen Wilson

Robert Allen Wilson, Sr. was born in Jamaica, New York, on January 8, 1942, to Frank Elwood Wilson and Bernice Cecelia Clarke. He was one of three sons, and his brothers, Frank Walter Wilson and James Thomas Wilson, preceded him in death. From the beginning, Robert’s life was marked by resilience and service.

Robert proudly began his military service on October 17, 1959, when he joined the United States Army and served at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He was a member of Company D, 12th BTN, 4th TNG Regiment, 4th Platoon. During this time, he earned a Sharpshooter medal for the M1 rifle, reflecting his dedication and discipline as a soldier. He was honorably discharged on April 16, 1960, with a six-month Reserve obligation, and his sense of duty led him to re-enter military service later that same year. On November 23, 1960, he joined the United States Air Force and was assigned to the 4082 FSS SAC, serving honorably until his discharge on August 20, 1963. His years in uniform shaped his character and instilled in him the values of loyalty, responsibility, and courage that he carried throughout his life.

After returning to civilian life, Robert continued his service to the country and community in new ways. He was employed by the United States Postal Service as a Clerk and worked in security for various U.S. Government agencies. It was during his position at the Smithsonian's Air & Space Museum that he met his current wife, Mary Jo. Reliable, steady, and hardworking, he built a reputation as someone who could be counted on, both by his colleagues and by those he served. Following these positions, Robert discovered a new passion: designing and making jewelry. He delighted in creating pieces and selling them at jewelry shows and flea markets, and this work became one of the great joys of his later years. It was not just a hobby, but a craft that allowed him to express his creativity, connect with people, and take pride in what he made with his own hands. Those who visited his tables and booths were often drawn not only to his pieces, but also to his easy conversation. He shared this passion with his mother when they would join tables and sell their creations outside of the Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

Robert’s greatest legacy is his family. He first married Pearl, and together they welcomed Robert Allen Wilson, Jr. (Robbie), who preceded him in death. Robbie had two siblings - Cynthia Wilson, who is the mother of four children; and Bruce Wilson. He later married Patricia Ann Marshall, and their children are Anthony Marshall, who is the father of three children; Beaux Wilson, who is the father of four children; Da'Neille Wilson; Jearlean Wilson, who is the mother of two children; and Vicki Wilson. Robert then married Sonja Minogue, and they had one son, Abram Aaron Wilson, who is the father of four children - Elyjah, Jasalyn, Adriana and Madison. Through his children and grandchildren, Robert’s love, humor, and strength will continue to live on across generations. Each life he helped to shape, each lesson he shared, and each moment of laughter or guidance will echo through his family for years to come.

For 37 years, Robert made his home in Montross, Virginia, where he shared life with his wife of 45 years, Mary JoAnn Frye Wilson. Mary Jo and Robert had one son, Nathaniel Wilson. Nathaniel blessed his parents with two children - Avalon Jayne-Elizabeth Hale and James Liam Wilson. Their long marriage is a testament to enduring partnership, commitment, and care. Together, they built memories and traditions.

In his final years, Robert resided in San Diego, California. He was lovingly cared for by his sister, Diana Chambers, as well as by the dedicated staff of Villa Rancho Bernardo, La Jolla Post Acute Care and Rehab, and the Jennifer Moreno Veterans Administration Medical Center in La Jolla, California. Their support and compassion provided Robert with comfort and dignity in his final season of life, and his family is deeply grateful for the attention and kindness he received.

Robert leaves to cherish his two sisters, Diana Cecelia Chambers and Deborah Michelle Chambers, and one brother, Glance Chambers, Sr. He was preceded in death by his youngest brother, Anthony Rene Chambers. Along with his many children, grandchildren, extended relatives, and friends, they mourn the loss of a man whose life reflected service, perseverance, and dignity. To know Robert was to encounter a man who could be quiet and reflective yet full of wit, who valued hard work, and who found joy in simple pleasures: a good conversation, a shared meal, or time spent with those he loved.

Rest in peace, Robert. May you be reunited with those who have gone before you, and may your family find comfort in knowing that you leave behind a legacy of devotion, strength, and enduring love. May your memory be a blessing and an example of a well-lived life.

Robert will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery.