Lonnie Barrett Wilson

Lonnie Barrett Wilson, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, in Grain Valley, Missouri. Born on August 10, 1949, in McAllen, Texas, Lonnie lived a life full of love, laughter, and unyielding faith.

Lonnie dedicated over 35 years to his career as an etcher for Hallmark, where his creativity and attention to detail shone brightly. His professional life was complemented by his time spent in the military, over a decade in the United States Navy. During this time he developed a love for flying planes, even owning his own aircraft at one point. This passion for aviation was paralleled by a love for the great outdoors. Lonnie enjoyed his days as a hobby farmer in his younger years and cherished camping trips with his family as the years went by. His favorite places were Lake Paradise and Odessa Hills campgrounds. Lonnie dedicated time as a camp counselor and did a lot of behind the scenes work to help ensure camps and reunions ran smoothly. He enjoyed creating lasting memories that brought smiles to all.

Beyond his work and hobbies, Lonnie was a devoted family man. He was very involved with his children and grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to cheer them on from the sidelines with unfiltered enthusiasm at their sports events. His encouragement and presence were constants in their lives.

Lonnie carried with him a mixture of charm and wit. He was known for being a good listener and generous to a fault. He once started up his own car business but felt the desire to continuously give away the cars to those in need instead of gaining profit from them. Needless to say, the business didn’t flourish as he’d intended. Lonnie was kind-hearted yet witty in conversations, qualities that endeared him to all who knew him.

Lonnie graduated from William Chrisman High School and later became a dedicated member of the Lexington Restoration Branch Church, where he attended for 25 years. His faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was centered around church and serving others. It was very important to him that his family knew their Lord and Savior, and he was a devoted man of faith. Lonnie was honored to be ordained into the office of teacher, imparting wisdom and guidance within his congregation.

Lonnie leaves this world remembered as an ornery, kind soul whose laughter resonated in the hearts of many. The memories he created—the family gatherings, the joyous camping trips, and the support at sporting events—will be carried forward by his loved ones, forming a legacy of love that can never be extinguished.

Lonnie is survived by his sons, Zachary Wilson (Aubree) and Levi Wilson; grandchildren, Hazel and Ruby Wilson, and Megan and Andrew Kennedy. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 32yrs, Linda; step-daughter, Dana Kennedy; and siblings, Bobby, Darryl, Carlee and Gerald.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate his life and legacy at a memorial service on August 5, 2025, at the Lexington Restoration Branch, beginning at 11:00 AM, followed by a burial at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville at 1:00 PM.