Dorsey Hanger Wilson

Dorsey Hanger Wilson, of Ronceverte, passed away on January 25th, 2024, in his 96th year of life. He was attended by his loved ones as he peacefully and painlessly succumbed to dementia, old age, and pancreatic cancer. Dorsey, known by his friends and family as a kind and generous man, will be deeply missed.

Dorsey was a passionate lover of history, particularly of his hometown, Fort Spring. Being the oldest member of the town, he cherished railroad mementos, facts, and photos. He held a wealth of stories about his elders and neighbors, which he eagerly shared with anyone willing to listen. Dorsey's dedication to history led him to become a member of the Greenbrier Historical Society. He was also involved in various organizations, including the Gideons and TOPPS.  Furthermore, he was a devoted member of Grace United Methodist Church of Fort Spring, where he led adult Sunday school classes and served as a lay speaker for many years.

Dorsey was married to his beloved wife Bonetta Caroll Wilson for fifty-one years. Together, they raised their twin daughters Marcia Wilson and Lucinda Walton (Russell Walton). Dorsey was also a proud grandfather to Lenwood and Blair Wilson. He treasured his family deeply.

Dorsey was preceded in death by his mother, Lemona Catherine Wilson, his father, Bernard Francis Wilson, his sisters June Moriarity and Sonoma Hall, and his brother Bernard Wilson Jr.

Education played an important role in Dorsey's life. He attended primary school and graduated from Greenbrier High School in Ronceverte.

Dorsey's commitment to service extended to his involvement in the National Guard. He served his country with honor and dedication, guarding German POWs farming potatoes on the David Miller Farm.

Throughout his career, Dorsey held various jobs such as working the Gravel Girty Line of the C&O and the Acme Limestone Quarry before assuming the position of Head Postmaster at Fort Spring Post Office. He approached his work with diligence and professionalism, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Dorsey found solace in his faith and regularly attended Grace United Methodist Church in Fort Spring and the Mount Vernon United Methodist Church. In his free time, Dorsey indulged in his hobbies, which included woodworking, studying Christian and railroad history, and the teachings of Paul the Apostle.

A gathering of family and friends will take place at Morgan Funeral Home, located at 252 Montview Drive, Lewisburg, WV, 24901, on January 29th, at 11:00 a.m. A burial service will follow at 12 noon at Mount Vernon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice in Dorsey's name. Dorsey had a compassionate heart and hated seeing people and animals hungry. He made it a point to offer food and safe passage to anyone in need. His earliest memory was standing on a chair to feed a hobo one of his mother's biscuits out the kitchen window, and he was haunted all his life by the sight of the huddled poor in the trains, riding below the fancy dining cars where the elite ate off crystal and china.

May the memories of Dorsey Hanger Wilson's life bring comfort and solace to all those who knew and loved him.

Online guestbook can be signed at www.morganfh.net .  Morgan Funeral Home is honored to assist the family during this difficult time.