James "Jim" Edward Wilson, 77, of Mexico, passed away on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at Monroe Manor, after years of difficulties related to Multiple Sclerosis.

Memorial services will held be at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at Arnold Funeral Home. Reverend Phyllis Hart will be officiating the service.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, March 28, from 9:00 A.M. until time of service at the funeral home.

Jim was born on February 7, 1946 in Mexico, the son of Loyd and Elizabeth (Henderson) Wilson. He attended Fox School, a one-room schoolhouse, in Thompson.   He graduated from Centralia High School in 1964. On June 2, 1968 he married Ellen Swank in Hannibal.

Jim began his working life building houses with his father. He later became a partner in NJ Wilson Contracting where he spent most of his working years.  Once Jim retired due to disability, he enjoyed woodworking in his shop, researching genealogy, gardening, bird watching and taking trips to visit his grandchildren. As a younger man Jim was active in the Jaycees organization. Later in life he was active in Kiwanis Club, served on the Handi Shop Board, volunteered as a member of the AMC Hospital Auxiliary, and received awards from the Red Cross for fundraising in Audrain County. He was a lifelong member of Liberty Christian Church, serving as an Elder, Board President, and Sunday School Superintendent and teacher.  During his last years, he was President of the Residents' Council at Monroe Manor.

Survivors include his wife, Ellen Wilson of Hannibal; two children, Steve Wilson of Hannibal and Susan Wilson of Hannibal; five grandchildren, Brody, Allie, Stevie, Tyler and Livi; two brothers, Nelson (Judy) Wilson of Mexico and Roger (Jackie) Wilson of Colorado; two sisters-in-law, Ann Wilson of Mexico and Karen Wilson of Boonville.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd and Elizabeth Wilson; two brothers, Nolan Wilson and Bill Wilson; one daughter-in-law, Liz Wilson.

The family requests memorial donations be made to Liberty Christian Church or the MS Society. Memorials may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson, Mexico, MO 65265.

Online condolences may be left at www.arnoldfh.com