James R. Wilson

James R. Wilson, 87, of Mineral Ridge, passed away on August 8, 2024, at his residence. Jim was born March 16, 1937, in Salem, Ohio—the son of Samuel B. Wilson Sr. and Esther (Sheen) Wilson. Jim retired from Packard Electric with 35 years of service as a Machine Repairman. 

Jim had a love for animals, especially Shih Tzu's. After he retired, he was a member of the Fuzzy Pawz Shih Tzu Dog Rescue. He had a kind heart to take in dogs that no one wanted until he could find their forever family. A few of the dogs were blind and he kept them for the rest of their life.

Jim was a vegetarian and often created new veggie recipes, one of his favorites was fruit soup. His good friend Cliff Zeppernick would visit him weekly bringing him fresh produce and sharing his vegetarian dishes.

Jim was strong-willed and stubborn at times, but he also had an enormous heart. He shared the knowledge he gained through all of his life experiences with his friends and family.

Jim was survived by his daughter Darla (Wilson) Collins, his son Duane Wilson, his wife Wanda, and his two grandchildren, Jessica Wilson and Marc Harper; former wife Betty (Turney) Wilson; brothers Sam Wilson (Anita), Rexford Wilson (Kathy), Kevin Wilson (Debra) Richard Wilson, and his sister Marie Wilson Buck.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents Samuel B. Wilson Sr. and Esther E (Sheen) Wilson. Sister Vera Mae (Wilson) Baird. Companion Joan Kovach.

Private services will be held. Visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and to send any expressions of sympathy to the family.