James McKinley Wilson

James McKinley Wilson, age 84, of Asheville, NC, passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at the John F. Keever, Jr. Solace Center in Asheville, NC.

James was born on November 13, 1938, in Buncombe County to the late Lawrence Junior Wilson and Thelma Gertrude Burnette Wilson. He attended Rose Hill Baptist Church in Asheville and was retired from his job as a truck driver for Overnight Transportation.

James was a wonderful father and grandfather who loved his family dearly. He enjoyed being outdoors, working in his garden, or going for a hike. James also loved watching wrestling and Nascar races. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Sue Wilson; a granddaughter, Sherrie Justice; two son-in-law’s, Darrin Collins and Steven Justice; and three brothers, Jack, Willie and Vernon Wilson.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his son, James Wilson and his wife Janet of Asheville; three daughters, Kim DeWeese and her husband Randy of Alexander, NC, Brenda Justice and Sandra Collins, both of Asheville; twelve grandchildren, Connie, Tiffany, Brooke, Travis, Cody, Levi, Jamie, Cassie, Brandon, Kelsey and Larry; 13 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Penland Family Funeral Home, 125 South Avenue, Swannanoa, NC 28778, conducted by Pastor Chester Owenby.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 12-1 PM at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at New Salem Cemetery, Skyland, NC.

Online condolences may be left at: www.penlandfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Penland Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.

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