Rev. Dr. James Wilson

Rev. Dr. James Michael Wilson passed away peacefully October 6, 2025 in Barrington. He was born Dec. 29, 1940 in Elgin to James and Marion Wilson.

Jim was an avid reader; loved to travel; sports fanatic - following the Cubs, Blackhawks, Bulls, Notre Dame and his beloved Northwestern Wildcats. He adored his cats and dogs throughout his life, especially Annie, his well-loved cat. Jim cherished the time he spent with family especially at the lake cabin in Michigan.

James is survived by his wife of 40 years, Charlene (nee Slack) Wilson; children, Kimberly (James) Wachenheim of Oxford, OH, Michael (Deanna) Wilson of Ramona, CA, and Mary Beth (Sean) O’Donnell of Chicago, IL; grandchildren, Gretchen (Kyle Jones) Wachenheim, Hannah (Alex Ward) Wachenheim, Derek Wilson, and Deven Wilson; great grandson, Osborne Jones; sister-in-law, Margo (late Jack) Wilson; brother-in-law, Dr. Charles (late Jeanne) Slack; his aunt, Judy Skoff, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Judith (Wilson) Miller; brother, John “Jack” Wilson; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

James was a graduate of Dundee High School and received the degrees of Bachelor’s of Science and Master’s of Arts from Northern Illinois University. He went on to receive a Master of Divinity from Garrett Theological Seminary at Northwestern University, and a Doctor of Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary at the University of Chicago.

Jim’s distinguished career includes teaching mathematics and coaching at Marseilles High School. For 53 years he served the United Methodist Church as Pastor of; Elmhurst First, Elgin Faith, Zion Memorial, Joliet Grace, Barrington United Methodist; and Hebron United Methodist. Jim also served as DeKalb District Superintendent of the Northern Illinois Conference.

He was an Advocate of social and racial justice issues, human rights, women’s rights, the poor, the homeless and the marginalized.

He was active in the Will Grundy Medical Clinic, Joliet Area Community Hospice, Joliet Kiwanis, Zion Rotary, Barrington Breakfast Rotary and Barrington Area Council on Aging (BACOA).

His greatest challenge in his ministry was during the years with the burning of BUMC and holding the congregation together during the years of wandering and finally the building of BUMC.

Family will receive visitors from 4-8pm Friday, October 17 at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 149 W. Main St. (Lake Cook Road) Barrington. Visitation will resume at 10am Saturday, October 18th at Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road, Barrington, followed by a funeral service at 11am. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road, Barrington or to James M. and Charlene M. Wilson Scholarship at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, 2121 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL 60201.