David Wilson
David R. “Pappy” Wilson, 77, of Pleasant City, passed away Saturday (June 20, 2026) at the Highland Oaks Health Center, McConnelsville.
David was born on June 23, 1948, in Cambridge, the son of the late Marshall and Mary Ann (Clary) Wilson. He graduated from Cambridge High School.
He retired from Mahle in Caldwell and spent several years running his own auto body shop there. He also enjoyed serving the community by driving the van for the Senior Citizens Center.
David was a proud member of the Moose Lodge, a dedicated member of the American Legion for more than fifty years, and a life member of the Byesville VFW Post 3760, where he served on the board for many years. He especially loved decorating the VFW for Halloween. David and his wife also cherished portraying Santa and Missy Claus in the Byesville Christmas parades and at holiday events hosted by the Byesville Fire Department.
A United States Navy veteran, David honorably served his country from 1968 to 1972, achieving the rank of AN.
His special interests include riding his motorcycles, especially his trikes. He enjoyed being around people whenever he could.
David is survived by his loving wife, Michelle Gini (Wanzie) Thompson Wilson – they were together for seventeen years and married on December 28, 2024. Also surviving are his children: Brian (& Carrie) Griffith of Belle Valley, Angela Wilson (& Candice Baker) of Las Vegas NV, and Stacey (& Larry) Lieber of Ramona CA; his grandchildren: Kennedy, Ethan, Samantha, Joshua, Courtney, and Mikayla; several great-grandchildren; a special sister-in-law whom he shares a birthday with, Anita Rardon; his special friends: Cecil and Jill Lambert, and Pam Shaw; several other special friends; and his loving dog, Princess Fiona Wilson, as well as his grand-cats.
Visitation will be held Tuesday (June 23, 2026) from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, where funeral services will follow at 5:30 p.m. with Evan. Mark Beros officiating. At the conclusion of the funeral, full military honors will be accorded to him by the United States Navy in conjunction with the Guernsey County Veterans Council.
Following the funeral service, a celebration of life will continue at the Byesville VFW Post 3760. All are invited to share in this time of remembrance with the family and bring any pictures they have of Pappy’s life.
Burial will be at Buffalo Cemetery on Wednesday (June 24, 2026) at 11 a.m.
Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com
