John Donald Wilson, 93, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Don was a beloved figure to his family and community.
Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida Don moved as a young boy to Greensboro, North Carolina where he grew up. He later married and moved with wife Lucille and daughter Donna, to Fletcher, North Carolina and made the rolling landscapes of western North Carolina their happy home for over 38 years. At 89, in 2019, Don was united with his daughter Marilyn Gutierrez, whom he had never known he had. An incredible story, he settled in Marco Island, Florida with Marilyn and her husband William Gutierrez for the last five years of his life, where he enjoyed the warmth of the sun, the love of his newly expanded family of daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Don had a lifelong passion for Tarheel basketball and enjoyed weekly trips to the casino with his daughter, Marilyn, and other friends sharing stories of his occasional wins and just loved playing his favorite slot machines.
Don proudly served his country from 1951-1959 in the United States Army as a member of the military police during the Korean War, stationed in Trieste, Italy. His service was a source of pride and honor, reflecting his commitment to duty and country.
After his military service, Don embarked on a long and fulfilling career with Southern Bell, which later became BellSouth and eventually AT&T. Over his 45-year tenure, he made significant contributions to the telecommunications industry throughout North Carolina, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
Don’s legacy is carried on by his loving family, who will miss his humor, kindness, and unwavering support. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Lee Earley and grandson Alden Earley of Atlanta, Georgia; daughter and son-in-law, Marilyn and William Gutierrez of Marco Island, Florida; grandchildren Joseph Gutierrez, Joshua Gutierrez, Cheyanne Beatty, Chelsea (Julian) Garratt, Chenoah (Tim) Hager, Dakotah (Talia) Gutierrez, and thirteen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife Lucille Wilson, mother Lucy Mary Wilson, father Posey Gold Wilson Sr., and siblings Kathleen Walker, Gloria Day, and P.G. Wilson, Jr.
A website has been created where you may leave messages for family and share memories of Don: https://www.vlm.cem.va.gov/JOHNDONALDWILSON/a7214a.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Don’s memory. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
October 24, 2024 Coastal Breeze News
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