Richard L. Wilson

Richard Leroy Wilson, 83, of Stewartstown, Pennsylvania, and Margate, Florida, passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024. Richard was born to John Hyson Wilson and Erma Pearl (Dellinger) Wilson on July 8, 1940, in York, Pennsylvania, and husband of DeEtta Elaine (Godfrey) Wilson (married January 21, 1960).

From his earliest years, farming was in his blood.  Through his high school years, he was an active FFA (Future Farmers of America) leader at Kennard-Dale High School, receiving many awards and honors for his young farming efforts.  After serving three years in the United States Marine Corps, he and his new bride, DeEtta, bought a farm in southern York County.  There, through hard work and determination, he became a very successful potato and grain farmer.  Farming led to new business ventures and eventually owning and operating Wilson Service Center in Stewartstown, PA.  Some of his favorite leisure activities throughout his life included bowling and pitching horseshoes professionally.  He was also an avid golfer to the end.

Richard is survived by his wife, DeEtta Elaine (Godfrey) Wilson; two children Kimberly Johnson (William) of Stewartstown and Bryan Wilson (Dreama) of Delta; sister Glenda Bisker (James) of Red Lion, brother Ronald Wilson (Patricia) of Stewartstown, and Gloria Wolfe (Jack) of Gatchellville.  Richard was a proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Megan Wilcox (Patrick), Lauren Peters (Wes), Marlena Crain (Thomas), Vincent Wilson (Leanne), and John Wilson (Carolyn).  His seven great-grandchildren include Linus Peters, Mathias Crain, Eoin Wilcox, Gilbert Peters, McKenzie Wilson, Grayson Crain, and Landon Wilson.

During his lifetime, Richard served on the school boards of Harford Christian School (Darlington, MD) and Southeastern School District.  In retirement, he served as president of two homeowners associations, one in Pennsylvania and one in Florida.  Richard had a heart for those who were honest, hard-working, and in need of an opportunity.  Countless individuals have experienced his gracious and wise assistance in life.

Richard’s family will host a celebration of life service on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Stewartstown Presbyterian Church, 14 College Ave., Stewartstown, PA.  A time of family visitation and light luncheon will follow the service, also at Stewartstown Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Harford Christian School (www.harfordchristian.org or 1736 Whiteford Road, Darlington, MD 21034) in Richard’s memory. HartensteinCares.com

The family invites anyone who is unable to attend Richard's Celebration of Life service, to use the link below to watch the service live on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 11:00 AM.