John Milton Wilson

John Milton Wilson, 70, of Greenwood, Ark., passed away Aug. 28 surrounded by his family at his home. Wilson was born in Morrilton, Ark., in 1944 where he was a standout football player for the Devil Dogs and lifeguard at Petit Jean State Park. After graduating from Ouachita Baptist in 1965, Wilson voluntarily joined the United States Marine Corps and served as a lieutenant in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V for Valor, the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Citation. Wilson worked for Arkhola Sand & Gravel in Fort Smith until 2005, retiring as vice-president of sales. He served as the President of the Manufacturing Executives Association, President of the Noon Kiwanis Club, and was a member of the Associated Builders and Contractors. "Grandpapa" liked to spend time outdoors with his six grandchildren and he was their biggest supporter at every event. He leaves his daughter, Janae Campbell and husband Al of Fort Smith; son, David Wilson and wife Kristi of San Diego, Calif.; and daughter, Rebecca Dickens and husband Josh of Van Buren, Ark.; six grandchildren, Carly and Matthew Campbell, Rachel, Lauren and Sara Wilson, and Zoe Dickens; one brother, Tom Wilson and wife Jan of Columbus, Ga. and their four children. His parents, B. Jack and Jane Wilson of Morrilton, Ark. preceded him in death. The memorial service will be Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 4 p.m. at Community Bible Church in Fort Smith, with visitation immediately following. Services are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Pallbearers are Tommy Cox, Paul Fiser, Paul Glover, Ken Legan, David Smith and Mickey Welch. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the John Wilson and B. Jack & Jane Wilson Endowment, University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, PO Box 3649, Fort Smith, Ark., 72913; (uafsfoundation.org). Online condolences may be sent to www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.