James T. Wilson

SOUTH STRAFORD—James T. Wilson 88, died peacefully at his home Tuesday June 19, 2007 in South Strafford.

He was born in Philadelphia, Penna., July 15, 1918 to Winfield Scott Wilson and Elizabeth Tyson Wilson. He attended Penn State University and upon graduation he worked on his grandparent’s dairy farm in South Strafford.

He entered the Army Air Corps. in January 1942, serving in the European Theater as a B-26 bomber pilot with the 555^th Group, 396 Squadron. He was awarded the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with 12 Oak Leaf Clusters and various campaign ribbons. After D-Day he was sent to Brazil to form and train a bomber squadron in their air force. He retired with a rank of Colonel.

Subsequent to his military service he worked in the Elizabeth Copper mine in South Strafford, then as a driller in oil fields of the Western U.S. Later he owned and operated a textile mill supply company in New Jersey.

He retired in 1985 to South Strafford and enjoyed skiing, golfing, motorcycle riding and working in his woodlot. He also volunteered for many years at the VA Hospital in White River Jct.

He was predeceased by his parents; his first wife, Barbara Stokes; his son, Jay Wilson; two brothers, David and Winfield Wilson; and his sister Essie Perkins.

Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Joan (Clark) Wilson; a brother, Richard Wilson; and two sons, Robert and Sherman Wilson, all of South Strafford; a daughter, Jane Wilson of New Hope, Penna; three daughters-in-law and one son-in-law; eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, three step-children and six step-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews cousins and many friends .

A graveside memorial service was held Friday, June 22 at the Evergreen Cemetery in South Strafford, with Rev. Dana Douglas officiating. During the service, James’ daughter, Jane Wilson and his brother, Richard Wilson, shared their reflections, followed by friends sharing their remembrances. Later, the family invited everyone to gather at the Buena Vista Farm for fellowship, refreshments and more storytelling.

Memorial contributions may be made to Veterans & Patient Services, Medical & Regional Officer Center, White River Jct., Vt. 05001. Arrangements are under the direction of the Boardway & Cilley Funeral Home on Main Street in Chelsea.

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