Rodney Lee Wilson, 76, of Connelly Springs, NC, passed away peacefully, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by family and friends after a period of declining health. 

Mr. Wilson was born on November 2, 1949, in Burke County to the late Geneva Reid Wilson and Johnny Edward Wilson. He attended Oak Ridge Baptist Church and graduated from Drexel High School. Rodney served in the National Guard and retired from Best of Beers, Inc. in Hickory, NC. He was an avid golfer, had a natural aptitude for technology, and enjoyed music throughout his life. He especially cherished the time spent sharing those interests with family and friends. Rodney’s faith was an important part of his life and provided strength and comfort throughout the years. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel like a friend. Whether sharing stories, offering a helping hand, or simply enjoying a conversation, he brought warmth, humor, and kindness wherever he went. He loved gathering with family and friends, and some of life’s best memories were made around a table, on a golf course, or listening to music together. His generosity, quick wit, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who knew him. 

Surviving Rodney are his son, Cole Wilson and wife, Lauren, of Davidson, NC, and his granddaughters, Hadley and Reese; his daughters, Dreama and Meadow Mosteller-Wilson; his fiancé, Jennifer Newman of the home, her children, Braeden Newman and Braeleigh Cable and husband Avin; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know and love him. 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Oak Ridge Baptist Church with Reverend Nicholas Wilson officiating. Interment will follow at Burke Memorial Park. 

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. prior to the service. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Oak Ridge Baptist Church 50/50 Program, 7449 Oak Ridge Church Road, Connelly Springs, NC 28612, or to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is serving the Wilson family.