Arthur "Skip" J. Wilson Jr.

Arthur J. Wilson Jr., known affectionately as "Skip" by his friends and family, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2024, in Hoschton, Georgia. Born on July 28, 1936, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, Skip's life spanned an extraordinary 88 years filled with love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family, country, and community.

Skip's early years were spent in the town of his birth, where he graduated from Sharon Senior High School in 1954. He carried the determination and discipline he learned in his youth to Youngstown University in Ohio, where he pursued higher education until financial constraints ended his formal academic journey. However, his thirst for knowledge and self-improvement never waned.

His commitment to his country was evident through his completion of U.S. Air Force pilot training. Although he did not continue as a pilot, Skip's dedication to service found a new avenue when he joined the U.S. Army as a Civilian Personnel Specialist and worked for the next ten years at Army bases in the U.S. and Okinawa. Then in 1970 started his career with the USDA/APHIS which took him on assignments to diverse locations such as Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica, and Africa, enriching his life with global experiences and a host of international friendships. In 1992, after 30 years of federal service, he retired and moved to Englewood, Florida to be close to his father, where he continued to lead a life of active community involvement.

Skip's involvement with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary reflected his love for the water and his desire to serve others. He was also a dedicated member of the Toastmasters Club, where he honed his public speaking skills and helped others find their voice. His love for nature was apparent to anyone who joined him on his many outdoor adventures. Skip was a member of the Elks Lodge of Englewood, Florida, and the Englewood Methodist Church.

Skip is survived by his sons, Gregory and Wesley, his cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Leah, Alivia, Jaxson, and great-granddaughter Harper. Skip was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Arthur Sr., and his brother Jim.

As we bid farewell to Skip, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey marked by dedication to others, and a heart always ready to give. Skip's memory will be treasured and his presence deeply missed, but the stories of his adventures, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Skip, you have left this world richer for your presence, and we are all the better for having shared in your journey. Rest in peace, dear friend, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Your flight has now taken you to new horizons, but here on earth, your spirit remains an indelible part of our lives.

Services will be held at Englewood Methodist Church in Englewood Florida on Friday, November 8, 2024 at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to the church.

Please share a memory or your condolence with the Wilson family at www.nationalcremation.com.