Phillip James Wilson

Phillip James Wilson, age 81, of Newcomerstown died in Trinity Twin City Hospital at Dennison on Sunday, May 15, 2016 following a period of declining health.

A son of the late Andrew J. and Harriett M. Heskett, Phil or Jim, as many of his family and friends knew him, was born on August 29, 1934.

Phillip attended school at Newcomerstown High School and completed his formal education while enlisted with the United States Navy. He proudly served our country for 20 years, from 1952 to 1971, as an active duty Senior Chief Petty Officer, where he specialized in communications and cryptology, as well as working with the NSA before his retirement. Following his retirement, he operated his own home repair and remodeling business, was employed by NCR’s Electronic Development Lab and several other employments, ultimately retiring in the early 90’s from Joy Technologies as a fan technician.

Phillip earned his Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies and Theology from Chula Vista Children’s School. He loved sharing scriptures and the Word with family and friends. He was a member of the Newcomerstown Lone Star Lodge #175 F & A.M., the Newcomerstown American Legion and the Newcomerstown Lions Club. He also loved hunting for mushrooms, ginseng and fishing, and loved a good game of kickball or Euchre with his family. Phillip was sharp-witted until the end and enjoyed a good joke and occasional prank.  He was a fervent servant of the Lord and always rallied for the underdog.  He cared for each family member and no one was left behind.

He will be deeply missed by his wife of 61 years, the former Carolyn Beauchamp, whom he married on October 2, 1954; their daughters, Bonnie Celuch, Carol (Tim) Hart, Peggy (Steve) Chilensky, Cindy (Steve) Baker, Cathy (Chris) Clantz, and Jennifer Wilson; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild; a sister, Marie Milligan; two sisters-in-law; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Beamer.

In addition to his parents, Phillip was preceded in death by two sons, Andrew and Jamie Wilson; a daughter, Wendy Wilson; a son-in-law, Paul “Butch” Celuch; six brothers; and two sisters.

The family will greet guests on Saturday, May 28, 2016 in the Lone Star Masonic Lodge, 235 N. Bridge St., Newcomerstown from Noon-2 PM, where a Lodge of Sorrow and a memorial service will begin at 2 PM. Inurnment with military honors will follow in the Fairfield Cemetery. Following services, all are invited back to the Masonic Lodge for a meal and fellowship.

Memorial contributions in memory of Phillip may be directed to the Salvation Army.