John Carroll Wilson

John Carroll Wilson obituary, Jacksonville, FL

John Carroll Wilson

John Wilson Obituary

Visit the Naugle Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Jacksonville website to view the full obituary.

John Carroll Wilson, 86, passed away surrounded by his family on March 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida.

Born on January 9, 1939, in Hickory Flat, Georgia, John grew up on a two-mule cotton farm, where he learned the value of hard work and perseverance. He carried these lessons with him throughout his life, shaping his dedication to service, family, and faith.

John graduated from Cherokee High School before earning his AA from Reinhardt College and then his bachelor's degree from New York University. He went on to serve his country with distinction in the United States Army for 21 years, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 3

(CW3). His military career was marked by numerous commendations and honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (2 campaigns), Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal (2d Award), two Overseas Bars, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal (1st OLC), Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Meritorious Service Medal (1st OLC), Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

Following his military service, John continued his commitment to public service by joining the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Over the course of 22 years, he worked diligently to uphold justice and integrity in his role as Crime Lab Analyst specializing in Fingerprint, Footwear and Tire Tracks, before retiring.

John’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He chose to follow Jesus at the age of nine and remained steadfast in his devotion. For 34 years, he and his wife Jo’Ann faithfully served in the two-year-old nursery at First Baptist Church Jacksonville. His life was a reflection of grace and selflessness as he sought to serve others—family, friends, and strangers alike— with kindness and generosity.

A man who loved working with his hands, John had an innate ability to create something ingenious out of whatever materials were available to him. Whether through craftsmanship or acts of service, he found joy in being productive and helping others. His sense of humor brought warmth to those around him, and his unwavering dedication to family was evident in every aspect of his life.

When he wasn’t investing in family time or a project around the house, John dedicated his retirement years to serving the needs of patients at Mayo, giving almost 5,000 hours of volunteer time between 2008-2021. As well, John was among the most revered blood donors at the Blood Bank, donating more than 25 gallons of blood.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Jo’Ann Wilson; his brother James Wilson; his sister Martha Marcucci; eight children; nineteen grandchildren; and fifteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Sam and Vera (Thomas) Wilson and brothers Reuben Wilson, Vardry Wilson, Marvin Wilson, and Thompy Wilson.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the First Baptist Church Preschool Ministry.

A funeral service will be held on March 20, 2025, at First Baptist Church Jacksonville (125 W. Ashley Street) at 10:00 AM. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. A reception will follow immediately after the service. Interment will be at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

Naugle Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Jacksonville

1203 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32207

How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John Wilson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more