It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Ross Wilson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. James “Jim” Ross Wilson, known affectionately as Jim, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 in Green River. He was a 20 year resident of Manilla, Utah and former resident of Green River.

He was born, December 5, 1944, in Rock Springs: the son of Jack Wilson and Keenie Saddler. Jim lived a life full of love, dedication, and service.

He married the love of his life Deanne Slagowski August 27, 1966 in Manila, Utah.

Jim’s early years were spent in Green River, where he graduated from Lincoln High School in 1963. He pursued higher education and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Wyoming becoming a chemical engineer. After graduating Jim went to work at FMC and had a successful career, from which he retired after 30 years of service. Jim was known for his serious demeanor and work ethic. His dedication to his job and employees will be known for ages and he left a lasting impact to those who worked with him. Aside from his professional achievements, Jim served with honor in the National Guard.

Jim’s greatest accomplishment was the legacy of his family. Though his title of coach or mentor was never official, there wasn’t a game or event he did not attend. His encouragement to be better was profoundly embedded in his kids and family and those he loved. His love of horses and ranching was equally as important to him. He taught his kids the love riding horses and the value of putting up hay. Though he may not have saddled the kid’s horses, he did always saddle Deanne’s horse for her.

The funny things Jim said were known as Jim’isms. His humor was quiet but known loud and clear from those around him. A few of his favorites were: that’s one of the hazards of camel travel, and that would chase a maggot off a gut wagon. He had nicknames for all the grandkids that were unique to each of them that they all loved.

Survivors include his wife Deanne Wilson of Green River; one son, Paul Wilson and wife Angela of Green River; two daughters, Kathy Johnson and husband Ed of Boyd, Minnesota; Aimee Thomas of Powell; two brothers, Mike Wilson and wife Penny of Timnath, Colorado; Tom Wilson and wife Sheryl of Green River; one sister, Shirley Terry of Kinnear; ten grandchildren, Garrett; Drew; Walker; Hunter; Josh; Morgan; Caleb; Rhyan; Cope; Avery; nine great-grandchildren, Bridger; Harvie; Pepper; Stella; Kash; Hayes; Amelia; Felix; Fitz; several cousins; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Keenie Wilson; one brother, Jack and Wanda Wilson; one brother-in-law, Jack Terry one son-in-law, Cole Thomas.

In memory of Jim’s abiding love for his heritage and community, the family respectfully requests that donations be made in his name to the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 404, Saratoga, Wyoming 82331.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be conducted at 1:00pm – 5:00 pm on August 28, 2026 at the Centennial Park, 40 North 2nd West, Manila, Utah.