Marion Wilson

Marion Stapleton Wilson passed away on April 29, 2025, in Chiefland, Florida, surrounded by family after a long and fulfilling life. She was 98 years old.

Born on July 8, 1926, in Gainesville, Florida, Marion was a proud fifth-generation Floridian. Her mother, Evelyn Phifer Story, also born in Alachua County, descended from Mayflower Pilgrims. Her father, Brian Osmond Stapleton, was born in 1893 on Atsena Otie Key, an island in Florida's Cedar Keys and the original site of the town of Cedar Key.

Marion's deep family roots traced back to her ancestor, Francis J. Stapleton, who settled in Florida before its statehood on March 3, 1845. Her Florida heritage earned her recognition from the Florida State Genealogical Society as both a Pioneer Descendant and a Settler and Builder.

Marion grew up in Gainesville and proudly graduated from Gainesville High School. In 1946, she married Denton Parks Wilson, with whom she shared nearly seven decades of marriage until his passing in 2015. Denton served honorably during World War II with the 290th Infantry Regiment, 75th Division, fighting valiantly in the Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Europe campaigns.

For many years, Marion managed her family's affairs and later took the reins of the family businesses. After she and Denton retired in 1981, they moved from Gainesville to Cedar Key, where their home became a beloved gathering place for friends and relatives. She especially enjoyed the company of her grandchildren, always making time to prepare cookies, waffles, and other treats and to join in eating them.

In both Gainesville and Cedar Key, Marion was active in numerous organizations, including the Gainesville Junior Women's Club, the Gainesville Women's Club, the GHS Has Beens, the First Baptist Church, the Cedar Key Historical Society (as a charter member), and the Cedar Key Garden Club. She had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, gardening, and exploring Florida's Gulf Coast.

Marion took immense pride in her family, and her love for them was immeasurable. She is survived by her three children, six grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Her children include Linda Jane Wilson Cantrell (Fred) of Gainesville; Lawrence Wynn Wilson of Treasure Island, Florida; and Brian Parks Wilson (Amelia) of Cedar Key, Florida. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother Bryan Stapleton, sister Mildred Bullet, and daughter-in-law Nanci Wilson.

Her family extends heartfelt thanks to all who visited her after Denton's passing and to those who cared for her with love and compassion.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 10 AM in the Cedar Key Cemetery. It will be officiated by an Elder from the First Baptist Church of Cedar Key. Following the graveside service, family and friends will be invited to a celebration of life gathering to share memories.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Marion's memory to The Haven Foundation or the First Baptist Church of Cedar Key.

Arrangements are under the direction of Weems & Sons Funeral Home, 715 W Park Avenue, Chiefland, FL 32626. (352) 493-4777.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​