Coad Ray Wilson, 83, departed this life at his home on April 7, 2017 with his wife at his side.  He was born on September 22, 1933 in Reeds Spring, Mo, the youngest of 5 children. He lived most of his life in Springfield and was the son of Pearl and Maud Wilson.   He graduated from Reeds Spring High school in 1951.  He was inducted into the Air Force on October 22, 1952 and was assigned as an Air Traffic Controller.  He was honorably discharged in October 1956 in Sacramento, CA.   In his civilian life, Coad continued his career as an Air Traffic Controller at numerous airports beginning at Chicago's O'Hare Airport and retiring in 1988 from Springfield Airport.

In 1992 he married Sharon Wilson his long time wife until his death. He previously married Patrie Denison in 1957, and to this union were born 4 children.

Coad is survived by his wife of 25 years Sharon Wilson; his children, Danny Wilson and wife Kim of Chanute Ks, Susan Jones and husband Dan of Hubbard Oh, Tammy Wilson of San Antonio Tx, David Wilson of Springfield Mo; Step-Children Kandee Blades of Dallas Tx and Skip Blades and wife Tamra of Denver Co; 6 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren; a nephew Dennis Akers and many great nieces and nephew, cousins and friends and his loving dog, Sassy.

He was preceded in death by this Mother Maud Wilson and Father Pearl Wilson, his brother James Donald, his sisters Jessie Wilson, Margie Akers and Vonee Hammers.

Coad's hobbies included Twin Engine Pilot, Golf and Bowling.  He was an active member of the Cristian County Elks Lodge #2777.

Coad was a loving father and husband and a lifelong friend to many.  He will be dearly missed.

Memorial services will be held at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home on Saturday, April 22, 2017 at 1:00 pm with the Christian County Elks Lodge #2777 officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your favorite charity.