Virgil Lee Wilson, Jr.

Virgil Lee Wilson Jr., a man of adventure, intellect, and boundless love, embarked on his final journey on February 19, 2025. Born on September 13, 1952, in the vibrant coastal city of Galveston, Texas, to Virgil Wilson and Jewel (Ott) Tibbets, Virgil's life was a tapestry woven with threads of courage, curiosity, and deep affection.

With a spirit as vast as the open sea, Virgil answered the call of duty, enlisting in the United States Navy on January 17, 1972. His distinguished career as a Cryptologic Technician Operator led him on a global odyssey, a journey that began with boot camp and blossomed into a life of extraordinary service.On January 6, 1973, he joined hands and hearts with Judy Criner, his beloved wife, and together they set sail on a worldwide adventure. Their family grew with the arrival of their cherished daughters, Heather (Wilson) Thompson and Sarah (Angie) Wilson-Kennelly, creating a bond that spanned continents. Virgil's service was marked by remarkable dedication and valor. He served in many challenging billets including: Naval Security Station Washington DC (two tours); Naval Communication Station Adak, Alaska; Naval Security Group Activity, Okinawa, Japan; Navy Communications Unit, London, UK; Commander, Middle East Forces, Bahrain; Commander, Naval Forces, Yokosuka, Japan; USS Oklahoma City; USS LaSalle; USS Nicholson; USS O'Bannon; USS Luce; USS Stark; and as a congressional liaison at the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Washington DC. Upon retiring from the Navy, he returned to his Texas roots, contributing his expertise to Mita and Verizon.Beyond his military service, Virgil was a passionate explorer of history and archaeology, a lifelong learner whose wanderlust led him to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, the enigmatic statues of Easter Island, the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, and the ancestral sites of Chaco Canyon. He was also an avid hunter, finding joy in the camaraderie of the deer lease as much as the thrill of the hunt.At the heart of Virgil's life was his unwavering devotion to his family. He was a loving husband, a steadfast father, and a doting grandfather who shared a unique and cherished bond with each of his grandchildren.

Avery Thompson (17), his "reading buddy" and kindred spirit, shared a love for literature, their conversations weaving through the pages of countless books and dreams of the future.

Harper Thompson (12) found a fellow adventurer in Virgil, their shared passion for the outdoors and camouflage creating a bond filled with laughter and tales of youthful escapades.

London Wilson-Kennelly (9) was the recipient of Virgil's playful spirit, his pockets always filled with jokes and his heart overflowing with laughter.Virgil Lee Wilson Jr. leaves behind a legacy of courage, curiosity, and boundless love. 

He was deeply cherished and will be missed beyond measure by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His memory will forever be a beacon of light, guiding us with his humor, his perseverance, and his adventurous spirit.