Richard Ray Wilson

Richard Ray Wilson son of Henry Davis Sr., and Sarah Edith (Nichols) Wilson was born March 7, 1941, near Gascozark, Missouri. Richard spent his young life in that area, as well as, the Richland community, attending school at Prairie Creek School and later attending Richland High School.. On July 2, 1959, Richard was united in marriage to Nancy June Perkins. He and Nancy enjoyed life as they began raising their family together; though it was brief, as God called her home on December 17, 1970. However, God blessed Richard once again when he met and married Betty Jean Roam on August 16, 1973. They too shared a life of laughter and love for over thirty-three years until her passing on March 4, 2007. Richard believed in teaching his children the importance of faith, hard work and perseverance. He spent many years working in grocery at Warrens store and later at Evans Supermarket. In 1970 he went to work for Richland School as custodian for the next 38 years, before retiring in 2008. In Richard’s younger days he enjoyed a good game of horseshoe pitching. He also enjoyed gun collecting, spending time outdoors and loved hunting, and fishing. Every Saturday morning you could find Richard at the MFA where he’d sip coffee and visit with neighbors and friends. Richard never met a stranger, and his kind, caring personality was enjoyed by everyone he’ meet. He is preceded in death by his wives, Nancy June Perkins, and Betty Jean Roam; one daughter, Lorrie Parker; three siblings, Juanita Collier, Louise Parker, his infant brother, Kenneth Gene Wilson; and one daughter-in-law, Arcelita Wilson. Richard passed away on the afternoon of Saturday, February 4, 2023, while in Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri, having attained the age of eighty-one. He leaves behind to cherish his memory, special friend, Ruby Tokar of Richland, MO; three children: Ronald R. Wilson of Montpelier, OH, Craig Wilson (Carrie) of Waynesville, MO, and Cheryell Atterberry of Camdenton, MO; 10 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren; one brother: Junior Wilson (Melzona) of Waynesville, MO; one sister: Donna Sapp of Laquey, MO; several nephews, nieces and a host of other relatives and friends. Richard was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He loved his family deeply and was proud of each and every one. Today, we celebrate his life and legacy and know that his family and friends will treasure the good memories he made with them during his lifetime. Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 8, 2023, in the Memorial Chapel of Richland, Missouri. Pastor Danny Graves officiated. Special music included “In the Garden,” and “Amazing Grace.” Escorts included Darren Sapp, Richard Sapp, Ken Parker, Sam Parker, Dave Wilson, and Mike Wilson. Honorary escorts included Louie Parker, Robbie Sapp, and Roy Woodard. Burial followed in the Oaklawn Cemetery of Richland. Services were under the care and direction of Memorial Chapel of Richland. Memorial contributions are suggested in memory of Richard Ray Wilson and may be left at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.memorialchapelsandcrematory.com

Richard Ray Wilson

March 7, 1941 - February 4, 2023