Troy M. Wilson

Troy M. Wilson, 95, Lt. Colonel USAF (retired), died on January 12, 2019. He was born October 29, 1923 at Fayetteville, Ark., son of E.F. and Florence Wilson. He is survived by his wife, Mada Ryker Wilson (married 74 years), two children, Jan Tolander and Stan Wilson and wife Kathey of Springdale; three grandchildren, LeeAnn Walker and husband Murry, Adam Tolander and Mike Wilson and wife Mary Katherine; and three great-grandchildren, Peyton, Baylee and Mackenzie. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; and two sisters. Troy had 25 years of combined military service in both the U.S. Navy during World War II and in the U.S. Air Force during subsequent wars. While in the Navy, he served on a destroyer that was assigned with another destroyer to escort Gen. Douglas MacArthur on his return to the Phillippines. During the Battle of Leyte Gulf, his destroyer was sunk by a Japanese suicide plane. Of his 25-year military career, Troy served 18 years as a special agent in the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. A private service for family members will be held at the Fayetteville National Cemetery. Donations may be made in Troy's name to the Willard Walker Hospice Home, 325 E. Longview Dr, Fayetteville, Ark. 72703. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.