Darlington honors ‘Earle B.’
Earle Bratton Wilson, Jr. of Darlington passed away on Friday, March 30, 2018 at the age of 90.
Well known in the community for his years of public service, Mr. Wilson was a charter member of the Darlington Rescue Squad and served with the Darlington Fire Department for 63 years. Beloved by his colleagues in the fire service, “Earle B.” was honored as Fireman of the Year three times. Wilson also volunteered with the American Red Cross.
Born in Darlington County, Earle Jr. was the son of the late Earle B. and Della Alice Broome Wilson. He graduated from St. John’s High School in 1944, and also was a graduate of the University of South Carolina.
Wilson joined the U.S. Navy and served in combat during World War II and the Korean War aboard the USS Newcamp and the USS Orleans.
After his service, Wilson began his long career with the United States Postal Service, and worked at the Darlington Post Office for 41 years until he retired.
Earle B. was a faithful member of Epworth United Methodist Church, which he attended for 72 years. Wilson was also active with American Legion Post # 13. His hobbies included hunting and fishing, and he was a fixture at Darlington eatery Joe’s Grill.
He was predeceased by his wife of Sara Welch Wilson. Surviving are two sons, Charles Wilson (Holly) of Wilmington, NC and Earle B. Wilson III (Kathy) of Florida; two daughters, Vicki Norwood (Jimmy) and Kelley Dickerson (Julian) both of Darlington; grandchildren, Emily Wilson Kirchmeyer (Andrew), Earle Wilson, IV, Chad Wilson, Chase Wilson, Rhodes Dickerson, III (Macey), Bryant Dickerson, Tori Norwood, and Cole Norwood; and great grandchildren, Jaxon, William and Graham Kirchmeyer.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 3 at 2 p.m. in the Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home Chapel. His burial, with a full honor guard and rifle salute, took place at Grove Hill Cemetery.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions in the memory of Earle Bratton Wilson, Jr. may contact Epworth United Methodist Church, The City of Darlington Fire Department, or the Darlington Rescue Squad.