James Wilson

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of our beloved father, James Neal Wilson, 82, who departed this life on Saturday, August 2nd, 2025, at Allegheny General Hospital, with his family by his side. A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great grandfather, Jim will be remembered for his dedication to his family and the warmth he brought to every room.

Jim was born in Cowanshannock Township on April 30th, 1943. He married his wife, Marlene Arbuckle, on May 2nd, 1964. In the nearly 62 years Jim and Marlene had together; they built a life rooted in hard work and family, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his greatest joy and constant source of pride. Jim told anyone who would listen that he was the richest man in the world.

Jim grew up on a farm and began driving/running equipment as a child. Throughout his career, he worked as a heavy highway equipment operator and drove coal trucks for the United Mine Workers. Jim finished his career with PennDot, retiring in 2007. He enjoyed classic cars, Harley Davidson motorcycles, and International Harvester tractors.

He is survived by his children LuAnn (Mike) Dalessio of Rural Valley, James A. Wilson of NuMine, John (Michelle) Wilson of Rural Valley, and Audra (Mike) Nolf of Yatesboro; grandchildren Michael (Cassie) Dalessio, Kristen (Edward) Wilson, Matthew (Barbara) Wilson, Jenna (Eric) McClafferty, Joseph (Haley) Dalessio, Sara (Solomon) Nolf, Breeana (Ike) Moon, Samantha (Josh) Gilliland, Johnny (Alyssa) Wilson, Jason (Maddie) Nolf, Michaela (Devon) Browne, and Emilee Wilson; 22 great-grandchildren; brother Gary (Mary) Wilson of Walkersville, MD; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, great-grandson Noah Bowser, and his sister Roberta (Ken) White.

Visitation will be held Thursday, August 7th, 2025, from 7:00 pm to 9 pm. at Carson Boyer Funeral Home, 724 W Main St., Rural Valley, PA. A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 8th, at 10:00 am at the NuValley Presbyterian Church, 901 Main St. E, Rural Valley, PA with Pastor Eric Longwell, officiating. Graveside services will immediately follow the church service. Anyone who would like to join the procession to the Rural Valley Cemetery on their motorcycle is welcome.

Jim had a way of making each member of his family feel safe, seen, and cherished. Though he may be gone, the love and lessons Jim shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy is one of love, faith, and family-an example we will carry with us always. Thank you for everything Dad, Grandpa, PaPa. You truly were the best!