James “Jim” Wilson Sr., 92, died on October 25, 2026, at Maine Veterans’ Homes in Scarborough, with his family by his side. Born on March 6, 1934, in Machiasport, Maine, he was the only child of the late Frederick and Claribel (Wood) Wilson. Jim graduated from South Portland High School in 1952. After graduation, he served in the Air Force, Coast Guard, and Army National Guard, completing a combined 27 years of military service. A proud veteran, he enjoyed sharing stories of his service and travels abroad.

Jim met his wife, Mary, through his friend George Moberg, who was dating Mary’s sister and later became Jim’s brother-in-law. Jim and Mary married in 1960 while he was serving in the Coast Guard. They eventually settled in South Portland, where they raised their family. Married for 58 years until Mary’s passing in 2018, they were loving partners and wonderful role models throughout their life together.

He spent his career as an oil burner technician, working for Chevron, Harris, and Union Oil. Known for his strong work ethic and warm rapport with customers, he formed many lasting friendships over the years.

Jim was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He cherished South Portland and raised his children near his childhood home on Preble Street. He played an active role in their activities, and the family spent many summers at Ocean Park in Old Orchard Beach. Jim and Mary loved entertaining and hosted countless family gatherings, celebrations, and Sunday dinners.

He enjoyed sports, especially college athletics, track and field, and golf—as well as music of all genres. An animal lover, he provided a loving home to many pets over the years. He also treasured fishing trips with his sons and traveling with Mary.

Jim adored his grandchildren and remained involved in their lives, attending sporting events, dance recitals, and other milestones. He took great joy in watching them grow into adulthood and staying up to date in their lives.

He had a quiet, gentle spirit and valued hard work, independence, and, above all, family. A man of quiet strength and determination, he lived largely independently until just a few weeks before his passing.

Over his 92 years, Jim witnessed extraordinary changes in the world and nearly a century of transformation. Through it all, he moved forward with grace, humility, and resilience. His life reflected his ability to adapt, persevere, and navigate life’s many changes while remaining true to the values that meant the most to him and to his love and devotion to his family. He will be greatly missed, and his family will forever be grateful for the strong roots and blessings of a loving family that Jim provided.

Jim was predeceased by his parents and his wife, Mary. He is survived by his daughters, Lynn Aceto and her husband, Vincent, of Gorham, and Lisa Campbell and her husband, James, of Pittston; his sons, James Wilson Jr. of South Thomaston and Jeffrey Wilson and his wife, Adrienne, of South Portland; his grandchildren, Morgan and Joshua Cloutier, Jason and Alexandra Aceto, Tyler Wilson and his wife, Grace, Conner Wilson, and Samantha Wilson; and his great-grandchildren, Arthur and Lyla Wilson.

Jim’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Maine Veterans’ Homes in Scarborough for the compassionate care they provided during his brief stay there.

At Jim’s request, funeral services will be private. Those wishing to honor his memory may donate to Maine Veterans’ Homes.

To share memories of Jim or to leave the family an online condolence, please visit www.athutchins.com