LtCol Robert Benjamin "Bob" Wilson, USMC, Retired
November 17, 1935 – July 20, 2025

LtCol Robert Benjamin "Bob" Wilson, USMC (Ret.), passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, at 3:33 p.m. in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, at the age of 89. A dedicated Marine Corps officer, devoted family man, and lifelong educator, Bob lived a life defined by service, honor, humor, helpfulness, and deep concern for others.

Born on November 17, 1935, in Washington, D.C., to the late Dora Elvira Beckham Wilson and Robert Beryl Wilson, Bob was raised with a strong sense of duty and a commitment to education that shaped his life and career. After graduating from the University of Virginia in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science Education and commissioning as a USMC Second Lieutenant, this proud Wahoo began a 20-year career in the United States Marine Corps (1958 – 1978) where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. A wartime veteran, he served his country with valor in Vietnam, exemplifying the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment. His leadership and loyalty earned him the respect of his fellow Marines and the gratitude of our Nation.

Following his military retirement in 1978, Bob embarked on a second career in education. He taught physical science and algebra in the Onslow County School system where he inspired his students with patience, humor, and his own brand of no-nonsense discipline. He later served as a counselor for Coastal Carolina Community College at New River Marine Corps Air Station. Through his teaching, he continued his family legacy of service by nurturing potential in others, not seeking recognition while focusing on helping others succeed. Through his counseling, he continued his lifelong quest to serve his fellow Marines and help others further their own education.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved first wife, Carol Lorraine Wilson; his parents; and his dear sisters, Dora Beryl Deans and Nancy Long.

He is survived by his second wife Mary Dunn Wilson of New Bern, NC, and his three children, Robert Barry Wilson (Joanne Churchill Wilson) of Waynesville, NC; Susan Lorraine Idol of Rocky Mount, NC; and Wayne Lee Wilson (David P. Stratton) of Apex, NC. He was a proud grandfather of five grandchildren and great-grandfather of seven, all of whom he cherished deeply as he guided them with his stories, steady wisdom, and his unwavering love.

To those who knew him, Bob was a man of wit, strength, and one who showed concern for others. He was quick to laugh and joke, he loved math and science, and had a deep commitment for doing what was right. Whether in uniform, in the classroom, or at the family dinner table, he led by example: humble, dependable, and quick to help someone in need.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, 03 August 2025 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Jones Funeral Home in Jacksonville NC. A memorial service with military honors take place at the same location on Monday, 04 August 2025 at 9:00 a.m., followed by interment at 10:00 a.m. at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bob's memory to the Semper Fi & America's Fund or the American Cancer Society.

Semper Fidelis — always faithful.
Bob Wilson's legacy lives on in those he led, taught, befriended, and loved.

Semper Fi & America's Fund donation link: https://thefund.org/donate/

The Fund is dedicated to providing immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to our Nation's critically wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and military families.

American Cancer Society donation link: https://donate.cancer.org/

A leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone by improving the lives of people with cancer and their families by combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.