James Edward Wilson's Obituary
James Edward “Flip” Wilson was born on July 19, 1944, to the late Otis and Mary Lee Wilson in Talladega, AL.
James graduated from Westside High School in 1962. He was awarded a basketball scholarship at Talladega College. In May of 1976, he enlisted into the United States Air Force where he served during the Vietnam War. Flip remained in the Air Force for fourteen years and had achieved the rank of Master Sergeant at his retirement in April of 1991. James was a 3rd degree Mason, a 32 second degree Mason, a 33rd degree Mason, Shriner, and Eastern Star. He also served as Worshipful Master of the lodge. Additionally, he managed Denny's restaurants for many years.
James met the love of his life, Sawing (Sunee), while serving in Thailand. James and Sunee married on September 4, 1975. They were blessed with two children: Saifon and Ernest.
On Saturday, April 22, 2023, James was called to his eternal rest. He was preceded in passing by his parents, Otis and Mary Lee Wilson; his stepmother, Adell Patterson Wilson; his siblings, Ernest Wilson, Annie Ruth Wilson, and the Wilson triplets.
He leaves to cherish his memories: his beloved wife, Sawing (Sunee) Wilson; a daughter, Saifon (Ernest II) Bond; a son, Ernest Wilson; two siblings, Walter Wilson and Sherron (Larry) Garrett; five grandchildren, Ernest Theodore Bond III, Taylor Victoria Jean Bond, Quincy James Wilson, Amari James Wilson, and Izaia Stephen Wilson; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to Flip's immediate family, he was blessed with a Utah family which included Eddie (Bobby) Walton, Vernon (Lovey) Hairston, Enrique Quintero, Cleo Manousakis, Nick, Junior, and Emilio.
A celebration of life will be held at Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park Chapel on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.
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