James Randal Wilson, Jr., son of Dorothy and James Wilson, Sr. was born on July 14, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio. While in high school, eminent domain policies of the City of Toledo pushed families, including the Wilsons, out of a cherished downtown Toledo neighborhood. The policies planted the seed for the civic engagement that appeared in James’ adulthood.
James earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Evansville, where he didn’t just study-he built lifelong friendships and found his voice. He was instrumental in establishing the Black Student Union. His passion for entertainment blossomed there, culminating in a groundbreaking radio program that became the first African American-focused broadcast in southern Indiana. Through it, he brought touring artists to town, enriching the lives of Black students and community members alike.
His lifelong love for IndyCar and NASCAR racing was launched during his time in Indiana. He regularly attended the Indy500 and NASCAR Brickyard races in Indianapolis. During racing season, on Saturdays he watched the qualifying races and on Sundays, the race itself-always rooting for his favorite teams.
After graduation, James launched his career at General Electric as a management trainee in manufacturing, quickly distinguishing himself as a top performer. But his heart had long been drawn to sales and marketing-a spark ignited in middle school–and followed it through roles at Toledo Scales, Polaroid, and Johnson & Johnson, each step a climb toward greater impact.
The expansion of firms in the telecommunications industry in the mid 1980s opened new doors. James joined MCI, then moved into leadership roles at smaller firms. It was during this chapter in the Washington, D. C. area that he met Cynthia-the woman who would become his wife, partner, and best friend. Together, they built a life rich in love and purpose.
James was a family man whose joy for life was most evident when around loved ones. Known for hosting unforgettable gatherings complete with magicians, live bands, and catered feasts-he brought laughter and connection to every occasion. A self-proclaimed grill master, James took pride in his collection of grills, smokers, and spits, always ready to serve up a meal and a memory. The parties gave him a venue to celebrate the academic achievements of his wife, son, and daughter-always their biggest cheerleader.
KMC Telecom brought the Wilsons–James, Cynthia, son Jared, and daughter Jasmine-to Fayetteville, North Carolina, where James served as City Director. When industry shifts prompted change, he embraced entrepreneurship, purchasing a Minuteman Press franchise. For nearly a decade, he poured his energy into the business before returning to two familiar passions, civic engagement and the arts.
He generously gave his time and resources to organizations such as United Way, Urban Ministry, the Fayetteville Regional Airport Commission, Fayetteville State University Foundation Board, and 100 Black Men. One of his proudest contributions was establishing a community garden at Urban Ministry where children learned how to cultivate the earth, a legacy that continues today.
A role in Dream Girls at Cape Fear Regional Theater reignited his passion for performance. He graced stages at Fayetteville State University and Gilbert Theater, lent his voice to narration, and helped produce and act in streaming projects like Elle Rose and Underground Queen. His creativity touched many arenas.
On October 28, 2025, James transitioned from this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and light. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Cynthia Gibbs Wilson; son, Dr. Jared R. Wilson (Nicole); daughter, Jasmine Ramona Wilson; sister, Pamela R. Wilson; and niece, Charlisa Blackshear (Justin). He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jennifer R. Wilson.
James’ legacy lives on in the hearts of his extended family, his cherished friends from every chapter of life, and the countless lives he touched through his work, art, and his spirit. His presence will be deeply missed-but never forgotten.
