Jon Anthony Wilson

Thomasville, North Carolina

October 04, 1956 - March 05, 2025

Jon Anthony Wilson, a man whose laughter and compassion brought warmth to many, passed away unexpectedly on March 5, 2025, at the age of 68. Born on October 4, 1956, in Asheville, North Carolina, Jon lived a life filled with dedication, humor, and unwavering belief in the potential of others. Jon was baptized at and grew up attending mass at Basilica of Saint Lawrence in Asheville. His early education began at St. Eugene’s Catholic School, then continued at Asheville Catholic High School, graduating from AC Reynolds High School in 1975. Driven by a sense of duty, he served his country in the Army, receiving an honorable discharge. He pursued higher education at UNC Asheville, earning a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. In July 1980, Jon married the love of his life, Susan Carter Wilson, and together they built a loving family. He was a devoted father to Jacqueline of Las Vegas, Kelly of Charlotte, and Jonathan of Charlotte. Jon coached all three children in basketball during their childhood.
Jon’s professional life was marked by his commitment to service. During the early years of their marriage, Jon and Susan worked as Group Home parents caring for at-risk children. He spent many years in the insurance industry from 1986 to 1999, before landing at Davidson County Social Services, where he served from 1999 until his retirement in 2018. His dedication to helping others was evident in every aspect of his work.

Beyond his professional life, Jon was a passionate coach and mentor. In 1996, he founded the Viper Basketball organization, dedicating himself to developing young athletes until 2008. Notably, Jon was a strong advocate for women's and girls' sports, and he championed diversity within his teams and community. He believed in providing opportunities for all, regardless of background or gender, and instilled those values in the young people he coached. His belief in the power of sports to shape character was unwavering. Jon possessed a sharp wit and a wonderful sense of humor, which he shared generously with those around him. He found joy in simple pleasures, including a well-played hand of blackjack, cheering on his beloved UNC Tar Heels and Boston Red Sox, gardening, and traveling with his wife, Susan. He was rarely seen without a Diet Coke, preferably filled with an abundance of ice. His passion for cooking and serving others brought warmth and full bellies to countless gatherings. Jon was often heard saying, 'If you believe, you will achieve,' a testament to his optimistic spirit and unwavering faith. Jon was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Fannie Laughter; his parents, Raymond Timothy Wilson and Betty Sue Laughter Wilson; and his brother, Kevin Wilson. He is survived by his loving wife, Susan Carter Wilson; his children, Jacqueline, Kelly, and Jonathan; his brother, Tim Wilson of Asheville; his sister, Cindy Wilson Peterson and her husband, Bruce; and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service to celebrate Jon’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday March 19, 2025 at St. Peter Catholic Church, 507 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202. Flowers may be sent to the church or in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of the below charities in Jon’s memory:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Women’s Sports Foundation
United Way of Asheville & Buncombe County
To view additional photos and information regarding parking please visit: In Memoriam: Jon Wilson.

Parking Information for the church is as follows:

Parking for St. Peter Catholic Church is located in “The Green” parking deck. This is a below ground deck which can be accessed via S. Tryon Street or S. College Street. When you enter you will take a parking ticket which is dispensed at the machine. Parking is free with validation.

St. Peter’s parking is on Level P2 in the blue section. There are two elevators which will take you to the Street level/The Green park. The entrance of St. Peter’s is accessible from S. Tryon Street, directly across from the Mint Museum.

Please bring your entrance ticket to the church and validate at one of the hand validators located in the narthex (foyer) of the church.

“The Green” Parking Garage
435 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202
or
435 S College St, Charlotte, NC 28202

The Wilson Family have entrusted arrangements to Cremation Society of Charlotte.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jon Anthony Wilson, please visit our floral store.