Richard Wilson, in the presence of family and close friends, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday evening, January 16, 2026. His body, draped with an American flag with the playing of Taps, left the VA Community Living Center in Bonham, Texas. He fought the good fight, finished his race, and kept the faith.

Richard Wilson was born on August 11, 1946, in St. Vincent's Hospital in Sherman, Texas. His parents, T.H. and Lena Wilson brought him home at 415 Olive Street, to meet his older brother, Ted.

Richard had a typical, happy, carefree life growing up during the fifties. He would ride his bike to school at Washington Elementary. He had many escapades and adventures with his neighborhood pals. Richard graduated from Sherman High School (which is Piner now) in 1964. He attended Oklahoma Christian University and then enlisted in the Navy on January 5, 1967, during the Vietnam War. He was stationed at the Naval Reserve in San Diego, California. He made four trips to Vietnam on three different Carriers: the KittyHawk, the Enterprise, and the Oriskany. He worked on helicopters and other aircraft and equipment while serving. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea and the Navy Unit Commendation. He was proud to serve his country.

Richard left the service on December 15, 1970, and stayed in San Diego for a while. He returned to Sherman and attended Grayson College where he received his HVAC certification and worked in that field for most of his life. In later years, he received his irrigation license and started the Wilson Lawn Irrigation business.

One morning a friend invited Richard to breakfast. This friend also invited Patty Staley. Neither one knew each other, but it was a match made in Heaven. They were married May 31, 1999, and with Richard's two daughters, Nicole and Meaghan, and Patty's two children, Albert and Clarissa, a new family formed. Now, all four children are married and there are 11 beautiful grandchildren. Their family had many loving, happy times together and made many wonderful memories.

Church was a big part of Richard's life. He was a member of Grace Bible Church and served as a deacon for many years. He loved his church family and met regulary for Bible Studies. He was always available to give a hand to help with projects and repair whatever was needed. Richard told many good stories about the adventures canoeing down the Buffalo River with the men from the church.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Patty, children, Nicole Chestnut (Chris), Meaghan Vaughn (Zach), Albert Staley (Jessy), and Clarissa Goodwin (Robert). Grandchildren Sarah and Nicolas Chestnut, Matthew (Kaylie) and Molly Vaughn, Silas, Cordelia and Beatrix Staley, and Madelyn, Lillian, Brooks, and Garrett Goodwin. Richard's brother, Ted Wilson and many cousins.

A Memorial service will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Noon at Grace Bible Church, 4670 Loy Lake Road, Sherman, Texas. Prior to the memorial, family and friends will hold a graveside service at Cedarlawn Memorial Park in Sherman, Texas, at 11:00 a.m.

Visitation will be held Thursday, January 22, at Waldo Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m.

The family would like to thank the Bonham VA Community Living Center for the loving care they gave Richard during his time there.

Condolences can be made at Waldo Funeral Home at waldofuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Waldo Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Grace Bible Church or charity of your choice.