James "Jim" Wilson

James Henry Wilson (Jim), 81, of Winston-Salem, NC passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, March 14, 2024. He was born to the late Jesse Monroe and Osie Faye Shore Wilson on October 13, 1942, in Wilmington, NC. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Toby Wilson Pierce.

In his younger years, Jim graduated from Gray High School, where he played football and met the love of his life, Jean. He went on to attend Pfeiffer University. Jim spent over 40 years of his career with R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., beginning as a laborer and ending as an Executive Vice President. He was a board member for The Children’s Home, Inc. (now Crossnore Communities for Children) and for Allegacy Federal Credit Union.

Jim was a simple, humble, generous man who dearly loved his family and the times they spent together.

He enjoyed many hobbies over the years but especially his racecars. He owned several race teams – winning many championships at Bowman Gray Stadium and eventually owning a Winston Cup team.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jean Fortner Wilson; children, J. Michael Wilson (Aimee), and Debra Wilson (Sean McElroy); grandchildren, James Henry Wilson II, M.D. (Lila), and Hannah Tyler Wilson.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 23, 2024 at Salem Moravian Graveyard with Pastor Worth Green officiating. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Winston-Salem Rescue Misson at 718 Trade St. NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 or to Sunnyside Ministry at 319 Haled Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27127.