James Johnston Wilson

In Loving Memory of James Johnston Wilson (August 22, 1939 – October 4, 2025)

James was born the ninth of ten children, in Colonia Pacheco, Mexico, on August 22, 1939, to Marion Lyman Wilson and Louisa McDonald Wilson, James Johnston Wilson spent eighty-six years doing what he did best: serving, teaching, and quietly lifting everyone around him. He grew up on farms in Mexico, Oregon, and Utah, where a steady work ethic took root early—up before sunrise to milk cows and tend to chores.

As a young man, James served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Argentina. Shortly after returning, in 1963, he was sealed for all time and eternity to the love of his life, Noemí Reginato in the Los Angeles Temple. From then on they were inseparable, steadfast companions who lifted one another throughout their lives. They stood shoulder to shoulder, always present and always kind; their bond was unbreakable, an expression of love in its truest form. Noemí passed away in May 26, 2024. On Saturday, October 4, 2025, James followed her home—still devoted, still gentle, still in love.

After completing his bachelor’s degree in Geography, James embarked on a distinguished career as a diplomat that carried him, Noemí, and their growing family across South America. In the Andes of Chile he discovered one of his lifelong passions: mountain climbing. He loved the mountains and all of nature; their quiet gave him deep joy and peace. He was also stationed in Paraguay and Argentina, and during these years abroad he served in the Church as Bishop on several occasions and as a Regional Representative. In retirement, James and Noemí returned to full-time service, accepting a service mission in Peru and a temple mission in Chile. While serving as temple missionaries, James and Noemí were called to preside over the Tegucigalpa, Honduras mission. They ultimately settled in Saratoga Springs, Utah, happily close to family and friends.

James was loving, generous, and unfailingly selfless. He served faithfully in his callings and even more faithfully in the small, unheralded acts that define a life well lived. To his children he was a walking, old-timey encyclopedia—the sure answer to curious minds. He could name the birds on the fence and the constellations in the night sky, explain why river rocks are varied in color and how mountains fold, how to tie a proper knot, and tell you where the wind was coming from and which way was north, any time, in any place. Road trips became lessons in maps, wildlife, and geology, and he loved reading aloud just about every sign along the highway.

James is survived by his five children—Alex (Jeannie), Mary Ann (Jared), Michelle (Cheryl), Lyman (Lorena), and Mike (Tania)—as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren who adored their gentle grandpa and will keep his stories alive. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Noemí.

Loved by many and remembered by all who knew him, James lived life in the truest sense. He was a humble giant of a man, a hero to multitudes, and he blessed the many lives he touched.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Saratoga Springs 8th Ward, 2101 North Providence Drive, Saratoga Springs, UT. A viewing will be held Friday evening, October 10. at the church from 6:00 - 8:00 pm and on Saturday morning from 9:30 - 10:45 am prior to the services. Interment at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park. If you would like to watch the recorded services, please click on the blue "Watch Services" button above.