James "Jimmy" Edward Wilson, 78, passed away in the morning hours of Saturday, December 30th, 2023, at his home.

Jimmy was born on May 31, 1945.  A native of Transylvania County, he was the son of the late Dee and Christine Wilson.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Alice Faye, Jeannie Wilson, and Luanne Tingle.

Jimmy entered the Army In May 1969.  During his time in Vietnam, the Army Specialist received the Air Medal for making over 25 air combat assaults.  He was also awarded two Bronze Star Medals for valor/heroism, two Army Commendation Medals for valor/heroism, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.  Jimmy returned home in February 1971.  On a military leave of absence in October 1970, he met the love of his life, Sandy, at the Triangle Drive-In.

Jimmy worked for Ecusta for 38 years and simultaneously built a successful real estate appraisal company, Wilson Appraisal Company, where he served his clients well until he passed.

Jimmy spent his free time coaching his son's baseball team, winning 3 tournaments, and 3 season championships.  He also enjoyed playing basketball, specifically "HORSE" with both his son and daughter.

He was a member of Pisgah Forest Baptist Church.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Sandy Wilson, of Brevard; son, Dee Wilson, of Charlotte; daughter, Kristin McCora and husband, Edwin McCora, of Charlotte; and 3 grandchildren he loved dearly, Summer McCora, Merritt McCora, and Reagan McCora, all of Charlotte; brother, Bill Wilson and wife, Carolyn Wilson, of Danville, Illinois.

Funeral services will be held 2pm, Friday, January 5, 2024 at Pisgah Forest Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow with military honors at Blue Ridge Gardens of Memory.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com

Moody-Connolly Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.