On July 26, 2023, the Reverend James G. Wilson, fondly known as Jim, was called home to the Lord. Born on July 8, 1940, in Brooklyn, NY, Jim spent his final days in Stratford, CT, surrounded by the love and warmth of his family. Jim was the Rector at St. John’s from 1979 to 1987.
He is survived by his adoring wife, Regina Riley Wilson, his devoted sons, Michael and Christopher Wilson of Cary, NC, his loving sister and brother-in-law, Geraldine and Frank Gabriel, his dear sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Moe and Ken Dobert, and a host of beloved nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in his journey by his parents, William and Jane Wilson, and his brother, William W. Wilson.
Jim’s life was a testament to his faith, and his journey was one of service and dedication to his community. A proud graduate of Massapequa High School, Jim served as Senior Class President in 1958. His thirst for knowledge led him to Rensselaer Polytech Institute for three years before he graduated from Adelphi University. Heeding the call of the divine, Jim furthered his education at Berkeley Divinity School before undertaking a one-year Fellowship at Drew University in Campus Ministry.
Jim’s calling as an Episcopal priest saw him serve in numerous roles with grace and humility. He was a Curate at St. George Episcopal Church in Hempstead, NY, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Bohemia, NY, and St. John Episcopal Church in Oakdale, NY. He led his flock with compassion and wisdom as the Rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Waterbury, CT, and as the Summer Minister at St. Andrew Episcopal Church on Fire Island, NY. His dedication to his faith led him to the Episcopal Church Center in Manhattan, NY, where he served first as an Assistant and later as a Director in the Deployment Office. Even in his retirement, Jim continued to serve as the Resident Priest at Christ Church in Stratford, CT.
Jim was a pillar of his community, always active in civic activities. His courage and commitment to justice were evident when he participated in the March on Selma in March 1965. He was also a member of the Bohemia, NY Volunteer Fire Department, where he was honored as “Fireman of the Year,” and the National Network of Episcopal Clergy Association.
Beyond his service to the church and his community, Jim had a love for the great outdoors. He enjoyed boating and made numerous trips from Cape May, NJ to Lake Champlain via the Hudson River, the Erie Canal, and the Great South Bay in Southern Long Island. His favorite spot was Block Island, Salt Pond. An avid angler, Jim loved fishing on Long Island Sound, the Florida Keys, and Florida’s Treasure Coast. His adventurous spirit took him to places like Israel, France, England, Ireland, Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico, and the Panama Canal. When he wasn’t travelling or serving his community, Jim enjoyed a good crossword puzzle and reading books on sports, history, nautical adventures, and crime thrillers.
Jim was a thoughtful, interesting, and faith-filled man who touched the lives of all who knew him. His legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the hearts of those he left behind. As we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Reverend James G. Wilson, we take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he so faithfully served.
Friends are invited to attend A Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by Right Reverend Andrew Smith and concelebrant Reverend Pat Coller on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 11 am at Christ Church , 2000 Main Street, Stratford. Interment will be private. Visitation on Sunday from 4 pm to 7 pm at Pistey Funeral Home, 2155 Main Street, Stratford. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to either the American Cancer Society cancer.org or charity of one’s choice. Please visit www.pisteyfuneralhome.com to express condolences.