James Artemus Wilson

Dr. James Artemus Wilson, 84, of Bismarck, Arkansas, passed away July 19, 2015. He was born September 8, 1930, in De Roche, Arkansas, to the late John Raymond and Gladys Jewell (Thornton) Wilson. James was a member of De Roche Missionary Baptist Church and was a lifelong educator. He was a strong family man and was known by his great-grandchildren as "Happy". James had many creative interests including sketching, poetry, and carving, and was an avid gardener. He also enjoyed reading history and western books. James is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Wilma Thornton Wilson; brothers, John Wilson, Col. Carroll Wilson, Tommy Wilson, and Lt. Col. Daniel Wilson. Survivors include his daughters, Rhonda Dickey (Randy) of Batesville, Arkansas, Jwan Joslin (Randy) of Panama City, Florida; sisters, Helen Stewart of Hot Springs, Joyce Ladd (John) of Bismarck; grandchildren, Melissa Jarrett (David), Megan Rutell (Ethan), Rob Friedman (Jennifer); great-grandchildren, Caleb Rutell, Houston Rutell, Faith Friedman, Robbie Friedman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home. Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home with Elder Mark Thornton and Elder Chris Morrison officiating. Burial will follow at Hickory Grove Cemetery in Bismarck. Honorary pallbearer is Dr. Henry Bell. Guests may register at www.caruth-hale.com.