Stephen Ronald Wilson

Stephen Ronald Wilson, 78, entered into rest on June 25, 2023. He was born to the late Nelton and Phyllis Wilson in Kingsport, Tennessee on February 19, 1945. He will always be remembered by his wife, Patricia Wilson; sons, Matthew Wilson (Jaime), Mark Wilson, and Luke Wilson (Carla); and his daughters, Frances Bentley (Brooks), and Cynthia Smith (Michael); as well as his younger brother, Tom (Annette); and his thirteen grandchildren, Corbin, Hunter, Dane, Talon, Lumen, Ruthanne, John, Paul, Lilian, Rosie, Daphne, Beau, and Scarlet.

A visitation for family and friends will be Monday, July 17, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home. Stephen will be laid to rest privately at Andersonville National Cemetery.

Known for his big personality, Stephen was a man who found joy in humor and silliness. He took pride in his family and was especially delighted by his five children and thirteen grandchildren. Together with his beloved wife Patricia, he created a warm and loving home in Warner Robins, Georgia, where they raised their family and made beautiful memories.

Stephen enlisted in the Air Force and served in Vietnam, a decision heavily influenced by his father’s example, a respected Air Force Pilot and Colonel. When he returned from Vietnam, Stephen attended Georgetown University where he met his ‘shweetie’ in Arabic class. He and Patricia were married in the Dahlgren Chapel on June 6, 1971, recently celebrating 52 years of marriage. It was no surprise they chose to settle in Warner Robins, a proud military town where his parents had retired.

Stephen's Christian faith played a significant role in his life. Early in their marriage, he and Patricia joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, gifting his family a legacy of faith in Christ. Stephen and Patricia were sealed for time and all eternity in the Washington D.C. Temple on December 30, 1977. Stephen actively participated in various church callings, Boy Scouts, and even the construction of their cherished church building, where the family worshiped together.

Stephen was known for his strong work ethic and made sure his children learned the value of hard work by involving them in yard chores. He and his wife also established Wilson Accounting, an accounting business where they worked together. He also ventured into the IT business, starting a company alongside his son, Matthew. Never one to sit still too long, he took on long-haul truck routes, cherishing the independence and solitude of the open road. A few years ago, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of owning a Harley Davidson motorcycle, further embracing his love for adventure.

Stephen had a wide range of hobbies that brought him joy and fulfillment. He initiated a chess club in town, sharing his passion for the game and organizing tournaments. He had a fondness for bicycles and even worked in a bicycle repair shop. Cycling became one of his favorite activities, and he participated in long rides such as the renowned B.R.A.G. (Bike Ride Across Georgia). He also loved swimming, basking in the sun, and immersing himself in movies, particularly action flicks and westerns. The family frequently enjoyed trips to the theater together. In recent years, Stephen and Patricia welcomed two fur babies, Ladybug and Roxie, two mini bull terriers.

Dementia posed a challenging trial for Stephen and his family, but it allowed his loved ones to care for him the way he cared for others. The Wilson family expresses deep gratitude to the Georgia War Veterans Home, where Stephen received care. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Hospice nurses and the staff for their compassion and support.

For friends unable to attend at this time, the service will be streamed live via the McCullough Funeral Home Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/mcculloughfuneralhome/live/.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.