Bernie Wilson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, at the age of 70, in James City County, Virginia. Born on November 30, 1954, in Bedford, Virginia, Bernie lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.
Bernie was the proud owner of B & W Contractors, where he worked tirelessly, not only as a business owner but as a mentor and leader to many. His exceptional skill set meant he could fix anything, a trait that earned him admiration from friends and family alike.
A passionate outdoorsman, Bernie found joy in fishing and hunting, particularly rabbit hunting, and in training dogs. He relished every moment spent in nature, often surrounded by the company of those who shared his enthusiasm. Bernie also had a deep love for travel, frequently embarking on adventures with friends, and was known for his ability to connect with younger generations.
Bernie’s life was marked by the love he gave and received. He is preceded in death by his father, Lawson Wilson, stepmother Irene Wilson, mother Helen Wilson Seward, stepfather Vernon Seward, and brother Charles R. Wilson.
He leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Debbie Smith Wilson of Toano; sons Brian Lee Wilson and his wife Dori, along with grandsons Baron and Alex Wilson of Summerville, South Carolina, and Lawson Delano Wilson of Hawaii. He will also be dearly remembered by his granddaughter Mahealani Sargis and her husband Benjamin of Boise, Idaho, Makenzie Wilson of Middlesex, Virginia, Emma Schreyer of Williamsburg, Virginia, and great-granddaughter Ruby Sargis.
Bernie is survived by his brothers Joe Wilson and wife De of Meherrin, Virginia; Tony Wilson and wife Bonnie of Toano, Virginia; Michael Wilson and Paul Wilson, both of Rustburg, Virginia; and stepsister Gwyn Johnson and husband Robert of North Carolina. His extended family includes his mother-in-law De Smith of Williamsburg, Virginia, brothers-in-law Chris Smith and wife Katherine of Williamsburg, Virginia, and Tony Smith of Lanexa, Virginia, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and countless special friends who considered him both a mentor and a leader.
The family invites friends and loved ones to a service honoring Bernie Wilson’s life on Friday, July 18th, at Bucktrout Funeral Home, with the time to be announced. In this gathering, we will celebrate the legacy of a man whose impact was felt far beyond his immediate circle and whose memory will forever remain in our hearts.
