Georgia May Detar Wilson died peacefully at her home in Gilbert, AZ on July 20, 2020. Georgia was born January 11th, 1942 to Marshall Detar and Marian Pearl Hand in Montgomery, Michigan. She is survived by her sons Greg (Kelly) Perry, Chris (Annette) Perry, grandchildren Sophia, Parker and Mills, siblings Barbara, Rick and Dean and extended family.
Georgia was married to Joseph Perry for 27 years and then later to Gerry Wilson with whom she moved to Arizona and remained married until his death. She worked many years as an Academic Advisor at IPFW in Fort Wayne, IN and later at Rio Salado in Phoenix, AZ. Georgia loved working with students and helping them succeed in their academic careers. At one point, she managed “The Sweet Shop” once located at IPFW and felt a tremendous sense of pride running the university convenience store as well as helping the student body take a break from their work to relax. For her work there, she was recognized by the student body and received an award for her dedication to the students and IPFW, for which she was very proud.
A devoted mother and wife, Georgia was always thinking of others and had a very generous spirit. She was fiercely independent, creative, resourceful, had a wonderful sense of humor, was a gifted artist and a voracious reader who loved to indulge herself in any book, especially mysteries. Georgia absolutely loved living in Arizona and took great pride in her home, always thinking of what needed to be improved upon and enjoyed buying art to display along-side of photos of her children and grandchildren (with whom she was very proud). On most days after her retirement from Rio Salado, you could find her relaxing by her pool, reading a good book and most importantly, diving into one of her favorite foods- ice cream. So many fun conversations occurred with Georgia expounding upon the pleasures of ice cream!
Her incredible smile and laugh could light up a room. One of her lasting legacies is what she taught her children, continuing today through the lives of her grandchildren; honesty, kindness, encouragement, generosity, confidence, and love. Georgia was loved by many and will be missed greatly.
A special memory I have of Grandma was when we were hanging out while my parents were gone. We were watching TV when we decided to make a bet. She’d give me a dollar (which was a lot to me back then) if my parents came home at 9:30, and I’d have to give her a big hug if they came home at 9:45. I ended up winning, but I still gave her the big hug. That is one of my fondest memories of her.
My fondest times with Georgia were our morning chats by the pool, talking about whatever came to mind while sipping our coffees and watching the birds. There was a sense of joy, peace and stillness that always seemed to surround us. Georgia and these times will be greatly missed.
That is a beautiful memorial of Aunt Georgia. Thank you so much for sharing it. Greg and Chris did a wonderful job. Those pictures are great. I remember meeting Aunt Georgia for the first time, when I was a little girl. I thought she was so beautiful. She gave me a little manic ure set for a birthday gift one year, that I still have to this day! I guess I’m a bit of a pack rat. I am so sorry for your loss.
Greg and Chris and families,
I am very sorry for the loss of your Mom. She was a very kind and joyous person. May she rest in peace. My thoughts are with you and your families during this difficult time.
Greg and Chris-my sincere condolences. Georgia will always be remembered as one of the most kind, gentle, caring and generous souls I have come to know. God bless.
That is a beautiful memorial of Aunt Georgia. Thank you so much for sharing it with me. Greg and Chris did a wonderful job. Those pictu res were great. I remember meeting Aunt Georgia for the first time, when I was a little girl. I thought she was so beautiful. She gave me a little manic ure set for a birthday gift one year, that I still have to this day! I guess I’m a bit of a pack rat. I am so sorry for your loss.
Georgia was always so nice when I can over to hang out with Chris. She was always kind and patient even when I looked like a ruffian. She will be deeply missed. I pray for the family peace and happiness in this tough time.
I worked with Georgia at Rio Salado and for many years she was my cube buddy. Many days we shared lunch and Georgia would share stories of Greg and Chris. She was so proud of her sons and her family and looked forward to visits. A very sweet person ,made my life better just knowing her.
My sympathies to all of the family
I worked with Georgia at Rio Salado. Georgia was a very nice, kind and generous person. She always shared pictures of her sons and grandchildren with us, she was always glad when they came for visits.
Georgia will truly be missed, she was a good friend. My prayers and sympathy to the family.
Everyone that knows me is well aware of my massive fondness for Star Trek. I was just thinking about the very first collectible I ever received. It was a Star Trek phone that mom bought me decades ago. One of my fondest memories growing up in the late eighties and nineties was watching Star Trek the Next Generation every Saturday with mom. My dad would make dinner which usually consisted of ribs or sausage rolls , homemade french fries and garlic bread. Great memory.
I have great memories of family get togethers during summer break and holidays with Aunt Georgie, Uncle Joe, Greg and Chris.
Even though time has passed so quickly, I still hold you all dear to my heart.
My condolences to all of you. I will forever miss Aunt Georgie.
I met Georgia as a co-worker at Rio Salado College. She soon became a friend as well. Georgia’s welcoming smile was a reflection of the wonderful person she was/is. She invited me to pre- holiday dinners with her friends where we shared our stories about family, lots of hearty laughs, and left with too much food. I miss her already. My condolences to all of you.
My Dearest Sister, one who shared my life and growing-up years, one who worked at the Top Hat being a car-hop during our teen years and so many memories as women with family. I love you dearly.
Happy Birthday Mom. Miss and love you.
Happy Birthday Mom!! Live and miss you.