William "Ronnie" Wilson

William “Ronnie” Wilson Sr., 86, of Marshallberg, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026 at Pruitt Crystal Coast of Beaufort.

Ronnie proudly served in the United States Army as a Crypto Radio Operator and was stationed in Germany for three years. Following his active duty, he continued his service with the Army Reserve, retiring after 30 years with the 824th Heavy Boat Transportation unit based out of Morehead City.

In addition to his military career, Ronnie dedicated 20 years to East Bay Boat Works on Harkers Island building custom yachts. He was also a skilled brick mason who contributed to the construction of numerous homes throughout Carteret County. A man of many talents, he worked as a commercial fisherman, embracing the coastal traditions of his community.

Ronnie was a devoted member of Smyrna Pentecostal Holiness Church, where he served as their maintenance man and played a significant role in its construction by completing the brickwork for the building.

Ronnie was known for his strong work ethic, his love for the water and the pride he took in his family. He never missed an opportunity to tell the people that he loved “I love you.” and his faithful dog, Scooter, was always close to his side.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Smyrna Pentecostal Holiness Church. Burial will follow at Victoria Cemetery in Marshallberg.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Connie Wilson of Marshallberg; son, William “Ronnie” Wilson Jr. (Beth) of Knightdale, NC; daughter-in-law Lisa Lewis of Havelock, NC; grandson, Joshua Wilson of Harkers Island; grandson, William Christopher Wilson (Makalah) of Harkers Island; grandson, Wesley Cody Wilson of Harkers Island; granddaughter, Grayson Lewis (Hunter) of Havelock; granddaughter, Gianna Thomas (Austin) of Canton, NC; granddaughter, Miranda Catania of Knightdale, NC; grandson, Andrew Catania of Longmont, CO; sister, Suzanne Wilson of Beaufort and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Sarah Wilson; sister, Nettie Wilson Mizzelle; sister, Alice Wilson Joiner; stepson, Grayson Lewis Jr.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the friends and neighbors who showed so much kindness, support and helping hands especially Dan and Ann Riley, Mack and Wendy Marcom, Tony and Beth Piner and the Smyrna Pentecostal Holiness Church family.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noefs.org

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, NC.