Gary Herman Wilson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Herman Wilson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Gary passed away on December 4, 2024. He was born on January 21, 1944, in Paris, Texas, to the late Juanita Blanch Wilson and Herman Ellis Wilson. Gary’s love for his family was unwavering, and his devotion to his wife, Gail, was the cornerstone of his life. He was a man who would go to any length to ensure his loved ones were happy and well cared for. Always putting his family first, he had a special way of spoiling them, waiting on them hand and foot, and making sure they knew just how much they meant to him. His devotion to his family was a constant source of strength, love, and inspiration. A man of many talents and interests, Gary had a passion for motorcycles in his younger years, relishing the freedom of the open road. He was particularly fond of classic cars, especially a '57 Chevy. Gary was also an artist at heart—spending countless hours drawing and creating beautiful pieces of art. His love for woodworking allowed him to build many things with his own two hands, always with care and attention to detail. Gary had a playful, lighthearted spirit and a special connection with children. A true jokester, he always had a smile, a laugh, and a clever quip ready to make everyone around him feel at ease. His humor, intelligence, and hardworking nature were evident in everything he did. Gary worked full-time to support his family while pursuing his education as a full-time college student. His determination paid off when he made the Dean’s List at NC Wesleyan College, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Gary dedicated 31 years to Bridgestone Firestone as a Tire Engineer in Wilson, NC. His professional career was defined by hard work, commitment, and loyalty, traits that extended into every aspect of his life. One of Gary’s greatest joys was his love for Elvis Presley. The King of Rock and Roll was his all-time favorite artist, and Gary found great joy in listening to Elvis’s music, often reminiscing about his favorite songs and the memories they brought. Gary’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his kindness, creativity, humor, and above all, his selfless love for his family. Gary’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him. Gary was preceded in death by his sons Scottie Dale Wilson and Gary Paul Wilson; his parents, Juanita Blanch Wilson and Herman Ellis Wilson; his brothers Jerry Dean Wilson, Danny Keith Wilson and Donnie Wade Wilson; and his great-grandson, Beckett Jesse Staples. He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Gail Rackley Wilson of Nashville, NC; daughter Dawn Wilson Woodruff and husband David of Apex, NC; son Travis Wade Wilson of Rocky Mount, NC; granddaughters Morgan Hilhorst and husband Ben of Nashville, NC, Brittany Staples and husband Brian of Fuquay-Varina, NC, and Shelby Wilson of Rocky Mount, NC; great-grandchildren Spencer and Braelynn Hilhorst and Asher Staples. Gary’s legacy is also carried on by his siblings: Wayne Wilson (Judy) of Moore, OK; Pete Wilson of Lawton, OK; Melba Mahaffay of Moore, OK; Debra Melton of Lawton, OK and Jean Ann Peace (Mike) of Flower Mound, TX. He leaves behind a beloved cousin, Dean Riddles, and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly. The family extends special thanks to the compassionate team of EMTs, nurses, and doctors who provided care at his home, Autumn Care of Nash, and UNC Nash. A visitation with family and friends will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 4:00 to 5:00 pm at Cornerstone Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Forest Hills Cemetery, 350 N. 1st St., Nashville, NC 27856. Arrangements are entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home, 1052 S. First St., Nashville, NC 27856. Gary's family will forever remember him as a loving, devoted man who touched the lives of many. May he rest in peace, knowing his love and legacy will live on in all of us. .

Tributes

Gary Herman Wilson

January 21, 1944 - December 4, 2024