Dec 4, 2018

James A. Gilson, 88, a lifelong resident of Burgettstown, passed away Monday evening, December 3, 2018, in Donnell House, Washington.

He was born December 19, 1929, a son of the late Victor A. Gilson Sr. and Mary Rusky Gilson.

A graduate of Union High School in Burgettstown, he served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1948 until being honorably discharged in 1952. He was a recipient of the Good Conduct Medal.

Still serving as an active, 64-year life member of Burgettstown Volunteer Fire Department, he served as treasurer of the Foreign Fire Relief Fund and was a member of the Washington County, Western Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania State firemen’s associations.

Mr. Gilson was a self-employed house painter and wallpaperer in the Burgettstown area for many years, prior to his retirement from Washington Hospital in 1992. Along with his brother Elmer, he also owned a paint store in Burgettstown.

His loving wife, Linda L. Columbia Gilson, whom he married October 9, 1957, in Westminster Presbyterian Church, Burgettstown, preceded him in death October 28, 2008.

He is survived by his daughter and caregiver, Sherri Rae Gilson of Burgettstown; his daughter-in-law, Cyndi of Florida; a brother, Victor A. Gilson Jr. and wife Candy of the state of California; and several nieces and nephews.

Deceased, in addition to his parents and wife, are his son, Timothy Lee Gilson; brother Elmer “Crow” Gilson and wife Mary Lou; and sisters Mary Foltz and Evon Flurkey.

To honor Mr. Gilson’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Inurnment will be held in Mt. Prospect Cemetery, Hickory.

If so desired, donations may be made in his memory to Burgettstown Volunteer Fire Department, 1507 Main Street, P.O. Box 426, Burgettstown, PA 15021.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lee & Martin Funeral Home, 73 Highland Avenue, Burgettstown.