James R. Wilson

James R. Wilson, 92, of Washington, passed away at Sunday, November 26, 2017, at Heartland Healthcare Center-Riverview.

He was born on November 12, 1925 in Decatur, IL son of Orville and Eunice Wilson. He married Bettye Long on August 30, 1947 in Harvey, IL. She passed away on February 9, 2015 in Peoria One brother Robert Wilson and one sister Helen Furr also preceded him in death.

Surviving are one son Michael (Gayanne) Wilson of Metamora, one grandson Nathan Wilson of Washington and one granddaughter Erika Wilson of Decatur, IL.

A U.S. Army Air-Corp Veteran serving from 1943 until his honorable discharge in 1945. He flew on a B-29 Superfortress "Peachy" and was part of the 505th Bombardment Group stationed at Northern Mariana Islands, being stationed at North Field, Tinian. He flew 32 combat missions including air support during the signing of the instrument of surrender by Empire of Japan on the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.

After his honorable service, he attended Millikin University in Decatur, IL and graduated with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Business Administration. Jim then earned his Master's Degree in Industrial Psychology from the University of Utah. He worked for Caterpillar Tractor Co. from 1951 until his retirement in 1986 as a Personnel Manager.

Jim and his wife were life members Mt. Hawley Country Club in Peoria where they were avid golfers. He enjoyed many things in life, but especially traveling with their golf clubs in tow.

Funeral Services for Jim will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 29, 2017, at Mason-White Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Browning officiating. Visitation will be one-hour prior to his service also at the funeral home. Burial will follow his service at Glendale Cemetery in Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital-Peoria in his honor. To share memories and condolences with the family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.