William "Bill" George Wilson

William "Bill" George Wilson, 95, of Gainesville, Texas, passed away on May 9, 2026.He was born on April 24, 1931, in Andrews, Texas to Wilma and H.T. Wilson. Bill lived a life defined by hard work, faith, creativity, and devotion to his family.

On December 24, 1950, he married the love of his life, Joyce Baldwin, beginning a loving marriage of 68 years until Joyce's death in 2019. They were married in Everett WA. and soon moved to Andrews TX. After the birth of their four children, they moved to Canton, TX.

Bill proudly served in the United States Army Reserves as a cook and was honorably discharged to begin building his family life. He went on to have a successful career in the oil and gas industry, working as a plant supervisor for AMOCO. His expertise and leadership took him overseas to Egypt, where he lived and worked for two years training Egyptian employees in the Sahara Desert to run their own plant. On two separate occasions he demonstrated remarkable courage by saving the lives of two individuals in separate workplace accidents-an enduring testament to his character and quick action in times of need.

After returning to the United States, he lived in Sweeny, TX. Moving to

Levelland, TX, they lived more than 30 years. The last 7 years Gainesville has been his home.

A man of strong Christian faith, Bill was deeply involved in his church throughout his life. He served faithfully in many roles, including deacon, Sunday school director, and chairman of the house and grounds. He was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed, and his steady presence and servant’s heart made a lasting impact on his church community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, William was a gifted craftsman and artist. He had a natural talent for creating beauty with his hands, whether through woodworking, leatherwork, ceramics, or painting. His creations reflected both his patience and his passion for making things that would last. He was also a proud 32nd Degree Mason, a reflection of his commitment to brotherhood, service, and personal integrity.

Bill had a love for storytelling and was known for sharing stories that brought laughter, wisdom, and connection to those around him. He was a proud Texan who loved to share his knowledge of Texas history. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his unwavering faith, his strong work ethic, his creativity, and his quiet acts of bravery.

Preceded in death are his wife Joyce Wilson and daughter Joy Sue Bailey. Left behind are his three children Mike Wilson and wife Becky, Judy Stone and husband Butch, Nancy Wilson-Rhodes and husband John, son-in-law Ronnie Bailey, 8 grandchildren,

5 great grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Memorial donations may be mailed to VISTO (volunteers in service to others) at PO Box 607, Gainesville, TX 76241 or call 940-668-6403.

On Tuesday May 12, a memorial will be held at Temple Baptist Church with visitation starting at 1:00 PM. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 2:00 PM.