James Wilson Sr., 83, of Saybrook, Ohio, passed away Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Saybrook Landing following a long illness.

He was born August 19, 1942, in Conneaut, Ohio, the son of the late Kenneth and Bertha Wilson.
James spent many years working as a greenskeeper and in maintenance at several golf courses before retiring. He enjoyed watching sports, playing cards, shooting pool, and spending time playing cornhole and shuffleboard with friends. He was also a member of the VFW in Ashtabula, Ohio.

He is survived by his son, James Wilson Jr.; his grandchildren, Taylor Wilson, Trevor Wilson, Kailee Wilson, Megan Wilson, Brittany Nicole, Deena Shannon, Jamie Shannon, Justin Wilson, Blake Wilson, Axel Mestre, Madilynn Roberts, Alayah Roberts, Duane Paul Audette IV, Brady Shannon, Hayden Shannon, Chloe Skoien, and Chloe Pizzi. He is also survived by his sisters, Connie Jenkins and Judy Moss, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Maxine Wilson Burris; longtime companion, Darlene Hart; parents, Kenneth and Bertha Wilson; children, Terri Wilson, Margie Shannon Wilson, and William Wilson; and siblings, Larry Wilson, Phillis Vantassel, Richard Prosser, Millie Bumgardner, Lila Muto, Joyce Lee, and Betty Curtice.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Saybrook Landing for the care and compassion shown to him, especially his granddaughter, Megan Wilson, as well as the staff of Lake Erie Cremation & Funeral Services.

A graveside service will be held on May 22, 2026, at 12pm at Saybrook Cemetery in Saybrook, Ohio with Pastor Jeff Combs of First Community Church of God in Ashtabula officiating. Following the burial service, the family will meet at the church for a luncheon, please bring a covered dish.

Lake Erie Cremation & Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Rd, Geneva, OH 44041, assisted the family with arrangements. (440) 361-2273. www.LakeErieCrematory.com .