William Mitchell Wilson

William Mitchell "Billy" Wilson, 90, U.S. Navy Retired, formerly of Galax, VA passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at his home in Whitsett, NC.

He was born on March 18, 1934, in Elk Creek, VA to the late Henry H. Wilson and Nellie Burris Wilson.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his seven siblings; brothers, Robert H. Wilson, Arnold J. Wilson, Roger L. Wilson, and Roy D. Wilson; sisters, Betty N. Weaver, Evelyn L. "Suzie" Cox, and Alma R. Wilson.

He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1952 and retired in 1982, after faithfully and honorably serving a 30-year Naval Career including the Korean and Vietnam Eras.  After his Naval career he moved to Galax, VA, where he enjoyed his retirement years in his beloved Blue Ridge Mountains.  He loved bluegrass music and the Galax Fiddler's Convention in his younger days. He enjoyed gardening, hunting, and helping his neighbors.

Survivors include a daughter of the home, Debi Wilson Collins and her husband, Kevin of Whitsett, NC; daughter, Cheryl Wilson Chappell and her husband, Ron of Chesapeake, VA; a grandson, Will M. Collins and his wife Katherine of Whitsett, NC; a beloved great-granddaughter, Emilia; and Randy Wilson, who was like a son, and his wife, Christina of Galax, VA.

A graveside service will be held at Jerusalem United Methodist Church Cemetery in Elk Creek, VA . Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 1:00 PM with Pastor Jeff Wilson officiating. Full Military Honors will be conducted by the U.S. Navy and Grayson VFW Post 7726.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to; Wreaths Across America, https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ or K9s for Warriors, www.k9sforwarriors.org.