Roy Neil Wilson

Roy Neil Wilson, 89, passed away Thursday, July 27, 2023 at his residence at Floyd 'Tut' Fann State Veterans Home in Huntsville, Alabama. Roy was predeceased by his parents Neil and Dora Wilson, his brother James Wilson, his sister-in-law Cheryl Wilson and his ex-wife Joni James.

Roy was born on April 30, 1934 in Ancon, Canal Zone, Panama to Neil and Dora Wilson. Neil worked on the Panama Canal and together with Dora, raised their three sons in Panama.

After Roy graduated from High School in Panama, he journeyed to Colorado to attend the University of Colorado to study engineering. After a brief stint in Boulder, Roy decided to enlist in the Army in June of 1955 and was stationed in Germany through June 1958.

Following an honorable discharge from the Army, Roy returned to the states - initially in Denver, Colorado where he married Joan (Joni) Kathryn Marshino. After a move to Chicago, Illinois, he began his career with United Air Lines to work as a systems analyst where he helped develop United's reservation systems. Traveling between Chicago and Denver, Roy and Joni raised sons David and Mark before settling in Colorado in 1970 where he later finished a business degree from the University of Colorado.

Roy enjoyed golf and other sports, particularly baseball. He was active in company softball leagues, social bowling leagues and also helped coach his sons' football and baseball teams. Additionally, he enjoyed the benefits of traveling as an employee of United.

Roy worked for United for 27 years, and retired before moving to Scottsboro, Alabama where he became involved in a number of charities, primarily focusing on providing clothing and shoes for those in need. He was enlightened (and perhaps inspired) by the fact that Scottsboro was the home of the Unclaimed Baggage store, where many airlines today continue to send their lost luggage.

Roy later moved and settled in Huntsville, Alabama, where he continued to serve his communities

through volunteer work with various charities. He was also instrumental in providing several shipments of clothing, shoes, books, lotions, medications, soaps and even soccer balls for a mission in Zimbabwe.

A visitation and Celebration of Life will be held at Spry Funeral Home in Huntsville, Alabama on August 14t^h, 2023 beginning at 5pm. Roy will be laid to rest on December 12, 2023 at Ft. Logan National Cemetery in Denver, CO.

Please share your memories of Roy and condolences with his family by signing the guest book.