Jeffrey Alan Wilson

Jeffrey Alan Wilson , age 77, of Akron, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Jeff was born in Akron to James R. and Helen I. Wilson and attended Akron Public Schools, graduating from Buchtel in 1964. He attended Wittenberg University and the University of Akron where he was affiliated with Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He graduated with degrees in both Business Administration/Finance and Accounting. Jeff served in the US Navy overseas aboard the destroyer tender, the USS Tidewater. In 1968 he met the love of his life, Libby, and they married on August 2,1969. Jeff started his career in banking, owned several small businesses over the years, and ultimately owned a mobile ultrasound business. Among other organizations, Jeff was a past member of the Jaycees, The Fairlawn Optimist Club, and Weathervane Community Playhouse Board of Trustees, serving as its President.

Jeff and Libby fell in love with the Caribbean in the mid-70s after a trip to St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands. They returned to St. Croix more than 20 times over the years. In addition, they enjoyed several sailing charters with good friends throughout the Caribbean. So many fun adventures and experiences on the islands. Jeff loved the sea and nothing made him happier than being on a 42-ft sailboat skimming the beautiful blue waters. Jeff’s love of music was a bit diverse. He loved classical music and heavy metal…and not much in between. He loved telling the story of having a beer with Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin, whom he met by chance in a bar on one of the islands, while Libby was off exploring the shops. A kinder, more generous and loving man cannot be found. He loved his family and friends deeply and was always the first one to offer assistance. His gentle, kind demeanor and infectious smile were his trademark.

He was always at Libby’s side doing a vast amount of community volunteer work as her “bulk labor” (his term!) If you got one Wilson, you got the other. He believed deeply in volunteerism and helping those in need.  Daphne, Daisy, and Winnie, his three Old English Sheepdogs over 43 years gave him pure joy. He adored those dogs.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Jeff is preceded in death by his brother, Jack, and his parents James and Helen Wilson, his mother-in-law, Marilyn Jetter and sister-in-law, Molly Jetter.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Elizabeth (Libby) Jetter Wilson, his brother, Brian Wilson (Tami), His brother-in-law, Ed Jetter (Kim), and nieces, Christine Aquista (Nick) and Katie McKee (Marc).

In honor of Jeff’s wishes, there will be no services. Burial will be in the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Jeff’s honor may be made to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank,( www.akroncantonfoodbank.com ) The Gay Community Endowment Fund of the Akron Community Foundation, ( www.akroncf.org ) The Haven of Rest, ( www.havenofrest.org ) or the charity of your choice.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel. 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH  44333.