Joseph Gray Wilson, Jr., 86, died Tuesday, August 8, 2017. A Newport News native and 1949 graduate of Newport News High School, he remained a lifelong Peninsula resident. He served in the US Air Force from 1949-1952 as a trombonist in the Tactical Air Command Band at Langley Air Force Base. Upon discharge, he went to work for the Daily Press retiring in 1993 as a Plate Maker after 42 years of service. At that point, he took up painting and became a respected local artist, exhibiting some of his work in local galleries and at the Hampton Roads Convention Center.

He passed along his love of art, music, language, literature, history, and arcane trivia to his family, and they always loved his goofy sense of humor. An avid animal lover, he also loved a good long walk, a simple meal, and most important, engaging conversation. He was active with the Tidewater Soaring Society, the Collie and Sheltie Rescue, and the Daily Press Retirees Club.

Survivors include his devoted wife of 66 years, Barbara Alto Wilson; his daughters, Cynthia Wilson Heide (John Heide) of Smithfield, Susan Copeland Wilson (Mary Hoferek) of Gaithersburg, MD, and Karen McDonough Richards (Douglas Richards) of Virginia Beach; his grandchildren, Edward Gray Heide (Michelle) of Suffolk, Erica Leanne Heide (David) of Newport News, and Brian Richards of Charlottesville; and a great-grandson, John Heide.

The family will receive friends at a reception from 2-4 pm, Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, 2609 Cunningham Drive, Hampton.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Virginia, 825 Diligence Drive #226, Newport News, VA 23606 or Collie and Sheltie Rescue Association of Southeast Virginia, 1316 Sheppard Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23518.