William Ray Wilson

HARTFORD – William Ray Wilson, 88, of Hartford passed away peacefully on September 12th, 2026. He was born on July 4th, 1938 to the late Arthur and Winnie Cook Wilson.

We celebrate the life and legacy of Bill, a devoted community member, craftsman, and veteran whose hardworking hands left a lasting mark on everything he touched.

A proud graduate of Horse Branch High School, Bill spent his youth on the court playing basketball. Shortly after his high school years, he answered the call to serve his country when he was drafted into the military. He served honorably as a Military Police (MP) officer, stationed in Baltimore for two years.

Returning to civilian life, Bill built a steadfast career in the manufacturing sector. After gaining experience across several different factories, he found a long-term professional home at Thomas Industries in Beaver Dam. Over a dedicated 20-year tenure, his strong work ethic and mechanical skill earned him the role of Head of Maintenance. He later took his talents to Dart Polymers, Inc., where he worked in the electrical department until his well-earned retirement.

Bill embraced his retirement with the same practical enthusiasm he applied to his work. His very first purchase as a retiree was a Kubota tractor equipped with a bush hog, which he happily used to clear his driveway and maintain the fields surrounding his home. When summer arrived, Bill could invariably be found out in his workshop. He was a talented woodworker who spent his days building beautiful furniture, which he enjoyed selling to the local community.

Above all, Bill was a man of quiet, active faith. As a dedicated member of Living Faith Baptist Church, he preferred to show his devotion through service. When the congregation was preparing to move into their current building, Bill was instrumental in the physical renovation of the space. He continued to serve his church family faithfully in the years that followed, taking on the humble but vital role of church custodian.

His craftsmanship, dedication to his work, and service to his country and church will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Ferrell Wilson and brother, Mike Wilson.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 39 years, Dianne Hamilton Wilson; daughter, Jeannie (Harry) Williams; son, Jason Wilson; and grandson, Zach.

The family has requested a private burial. Bevil Bros. Funeral Home in Beaver Dam has been entrusted with the care of Mr. Wilson. Online messages of condolence may be sent to bevilbrosfuneralhomes.com.