George R. Wilson, Sr.

Here on Earth, we were loaned one of Gods greatest gifts.

George R. Wilson, Sr. passed away January 2, 2021 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Born to Ray C. Wilson and Grace Belle White of Bismarck, George was the second youngest of eight children. He is survived by two brothers, Alvin (Leona) Wilson of Bismarck and Rex (Orla) Wilson of Hoopeston. His brothers and sisters that will greet him at the gate will be Catherine, Ruth, Dean, Elsie, and June.

George became moonstruck and found the love of his life for 50 years upon her passing in 2006, Betty Mae Camden. She has been waiting for him since her passing. Their future together created a family of two sons and three daughters: George "Joey" R. (Penny) Wilson, Jr. of Danville, Albert (Jayne) Wilson of Mt. Pulaski, Leeanna (Dan) Ward of Chatham, Betty L. Wilson of Danville, and Linnette (Roger) Gutterridge of Danville. He is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

George provided for his family working as a mason for 40 years at Fleming and Weller, then Butch and Hoepeck, and finally Offut Construction. He was still pouring concrete at 84. Many called him "Red" or "the Ole Man". His hobbies and activities included helping and building Cherokee Scout Camp, and being a troop leader of the American Legion 210 Order of the Arrow.

He was also a founder of KBI and partook in building the Kickapoo Bowman Archery, Inc. His talents included woodcarving. He was a member and served as Show Chairman for Kickapoo Karvers for countless years. He was a devoted member of Chestnut Street Church of Christ in Hoopeston. The family requests donations to be to the church at 709 E Chestnut St, Hoopeston, IL 60942.

His family is not the only ones he left behind; a very special companion Joan Thrasher will dearly miss him. Her children and grandchildren were an extension of his family. Though he complained about his beagle "Jake", he loved his little buddy.

"I love you more than you love me, you are sweeter and cuter than I am."

A visitation will be held on Monday, January 11, 2021 from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, 3940 N. Vermilion Street, Danville IL 61834. A private family service will be held for George the following day. Pastor John Morris will be officiating. His children will lay him to rest next to his beloved Betty Mae at Gundy Cemetery in Bismarck.

Please join Georges family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.