Gilbert L. Wilson

Gilbert L. Wilson, 88, of New Marion passed away Sunday, February 22, 2026 at his home and at peace surrounded by his family and his pastor Josh. He was born in Jefferson County near China on October 31, 1937, the son of Lester “Woody” and Marie Schafer Wilson. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother Larry A. Wilson, and his brother-in-law Raymond Barron. Mr. Wilson was raised in the Canaan area and lived in New Marion. He was married to Letha Jean Wilson on May 20, 1961 and his wife of 64 years survives. Other survivors include four daughters Regina (Danny) Giltner of Madison, Renee Hunger of Hanover, Reina (Darrell) Simpson of Columbus, and Rachelle Wilson of Madison; 8 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; one sister Mary Dean Barron of Madison, and sister-in-law Janice Wilson of Hanover. Gilbert graduated from Central High School in Madison in 1955. On November 17 of that year, he enlisted in the US Navy and served for four years with the Airborne Early Warning Squadron. Gilbert was a radioman on WV 2 Aircraft, serving in that capacity for 1,500 hours of flying time. He was stationed in Hawaii. For service to his country Gilbert received the Good Conduct Medal. In civilian life he worked as an inspector and in maintenance for Conn Organ in Madison for 18 years. He then went to work for Robus Leather in Madison until his retirement. Gilbert enjoyed squirrel hunting, attending auctions, car races, collecting Griswold skillets, gardening, and keeping his yard mowed. He served as the first fire chief for the New Marion Fire Department. Gilbert was a member of the St. Anthony Catholic Church in China and had attended the New Marion Baptist Church. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday February 27 at the New Marion Cemetery with Rev. Josh Jackson and Michael Grigsby officiating. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Versailles American Legion. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.