Jerry A. Wilson, a kind and gentle man whose smile could brighten any room, lived a life filled with friendship, adventure, music, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. Whether he was welcoming someone to church, taking family members for a flight, dancing to big band music, or enjoying another cruise, Jerry had a way of making life a little more enjoyable for everyone around him.
Jerry passed away October 31, 2026, at The Waterford of Mansfield. He was 89.
Born May 28, 1937, in Summit Station, Ohio, Jerry was the son of Clarence A. and Martha Jean (Criss) Wilson. He graduated from Olentangy High School.
Jerry built a career in manufacturing, serving as the quality manager for Peabody Barnes, a pump manufacturer, until his retirement. Retirement, however, didn’t mean sitting still for long. He went on to work at Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital, first as the mail clerk and later as a valet. His friendly demeanor and broad smile made him a beloved presence. He enjoyed another ten years of staying busy and visiting with people before retiring for good.
A proud United States Army veteran, Jerry remained a patriot throughout his life. He was a member of AMVETS Post 26 in Mansfield, a 32nd Degree Mason, and a member of Aladdin Shrine Temple in Columbus.
On May 16, 1969, Jerry married Anita LaBrie, beginning a marriage filled with shared adventures, laughter, and memories that would span many years.
Faith and fellowship were important parts of Jerry’s life. He attended Crossroads Church, where he enjoyed singing in the choir and especially loved serving as a Sunday morning greeter. It was a fitting role for someone who was always smiling and genuinely happy to see others.
Jerry had a love for music, particularly the sounds of the big band era. He enjoyed dancing with Anita and playing the piano, finding joy in the simple pleasure of a good tune. He also held a private pilot’s license and owned his own airplane. One of his favorite adventures was taking family members up for a flight and sharing the excitement of seeing the world from above.
Travel was another great passion. Jerry and Anita enjoyed seeing the world together, taking an amazing 44 cruises along the way. He also enjoyed time on the golf course with friends and could often be found calling a game of bingo. He even got the opportunity to call at the largest bingo hall in the world in Cherokee, North Carolina!
Above all, Jerry will be remembered for his kindness, his gentle spirit, and that ever-present smile. He was a friend to many, well loved by those who knew him, and someone who never seemed to meet a stranger. His enthusiasm for life and the warmth he shared so freely will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
He is survived by his children Steven “Steve” (Candi) Wilson, Kathryn “Kathy” (Matt) Seay, Mark (Yvette) Wilson, Jessica Roskin , and Laura Payne; grandchildren Rachel, Jessica, Stephanie, Jonathan, James, Kristin, Desiree, Mark, Anthony and Zachary; 15 great grandchildren, siblings Patty (Frank) Wise, Joan (Jack) Furay, James (Carol) Wilson; nieces and their families, Melissa, Travis and Vance Turesson, and Heather, Chad, Meghan and Ethan Sheline, along with many extended family and friends.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife Anita in 2024.
Calling hours are Monday, November 9, 2026 from 11 am to 12 pm with the funeral service at 12 noon at the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. Burial in Oak Grove Memorial Park will follow the service.
The Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the Wilson family and encourage messages of support to the family by visiting:snyderfuneralhomes.com.
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com