James Rodney Wilson

James Rodney Wilson, aged 86, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, surrounded by his family, loved ones, and sweet puppy Piper.  Born on April 29, 1938, James led a life marked by dedication to his family and friends, service to his country, and always said yes to an adventure.

From 1961 to 1963, Jim served as a Medic Corpsman in the United States Army, a vital role for the health and safety of his fellow soldiers. His commitment to his duties was a testament to his character and resolve to assist others in need.  Jim valued a strong work ethic and held manufacturing and supervision positions in Illinois and Oklahoma.  He enjoyed working for Public Supply, Putman City School District, St. Luke's Methodist Church, and Dale Rodgers Training Center.  At Dale Rodgers, Jim's commitment to assisting anyone in need was renewed as he drove the clients to and from their positions and school, sharing a smile and always ready with a story.  He was also in charge of shopping and errands, and anyone who knew Jim knew that shopping was Jim's love language.

Jim had many interests, including a lifelong passion for cars; you never knew what color of convertible would be in the driveway (28 years = 19 cars and so many before that), he loved books by Stuart Woods and James Patterson, he had the softest heart for animals, and cherished adventures with Charlotte, such as camping in their teardrop camper or going to Sam's to buy one or five new shirts. He loved listening to music and his books on tape.  He had a special affection for Alexa, who always let him know the weather in Rockford, Freeport, IL, and Phoenix, AZ, so he knew his family was safe and comfortable.  He was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church, where he felt he had found a community of faith that supported him and Charlotte.

A large loving family survives him: his wife, Charlotte Wood-Wilson; sons Lonny Wilson and Kathy, Sheldon Wilson, Sterling Wilson and Niki, daughter Tracy Melton and Steve, son-in-law Isaac Masoud; and step-daughter Kristine and Adam Halacka; siblings Marilyn Peters, Walt Wilson, Delores and Ed Hill, Daryl and Cindy Wilson, Lester and Diane Wilson, Donna Olson, Dorthy and Ray Tracy, Davy and Cathy Wilson, Elaine Wilson, and Vickie and LeRoy Gill; sister-in-law Corky and Dale Everett, and a legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Brandon, Brittney, Ryan, Shawn, Heather, Leslie, Amber, Leitner, Alexandra, Sabrina, Noah, Hope, Taloa, Tvskha, Izzat, Izabella, Ezra, Brielle, Emilie Rose and many more family members, including David, James, Jeff, Heidi, Greg, Jillian, Debbie, Barry, Delores, Donna, Zane, Cole, Lilly, Harrison, and Daylan, all of whom brought joy to his life.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Robert and Pauline Dorthy Wilson; siblings Larry, Franklin, Dennis, Arvin, Gaileen, Lori, and daughter Sharon Anne; and his puppies, Howard, Lacy, and grand dog Barley.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. and on Monday from 9:00 A.M to 11:00 A.M. at Yanda and Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services, located at 1500 W Vandament Ave, Yukon, OK 73099.

A service to celebrate his life will follow on Monday, October 28, at 2:00 P.M. at Wesley United Methodist Church, 1401 NW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73106. Everyone who knew him will remember his life and legacy as a caring individual devoted to his loved ones and community. The service will also be shared for family and friends who are unable to attend: https://www.facebook.com/wesleyokc

Jim's life will also be celebrated in April for family and friends. Details will be shared later. When you miss Jim, please pet a puppy or drive with the windows down, listening to Merle Haggard.

In lieu of flowers, please remember Jim by giving to Dale Rodgers Training Center https://www.drtc.org/donate/

or the Oklahoma Humane Society https://okhumane.org/donate/ .