James Earl Wilson

James “EARL” Wilson, age 76 of Black Creek, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends Thursday, September 4, 2025. Most people know Earl from his days at The Creamery Family Restaurant, where he began working in high school, then managed and eventually co-owned with his partner, Ray Raper. He was there for over forty years, and they sold the Creamery in 2005. Earl also loved to play Put-Put and won many tournaments. On his days off, he could be found at the golf course with his buddies. Earl was a huge Carolina Tarheel basketball fan and enjoyed attending home games. He also loved to sing and loved the Lord. Earl enjoyed going out to eat and making people laugh.

Earl is survived by his grandchildren, Lauren Beach of Sims, Jacob Scannell of Charlotte, and Katie Scannell of Raleigh; a step-daughter, Melanie Scannell (Tom) of Raleigh; brother, Jerry Stallings of Wilson; sister-in-law, Sonia Beach (Sid) of Sims, Betty Stallings of Wilson; brother-in-law, Dennis Batchelor of Mooresville; many nieces and nephews, and a special friend, Alane Vester Lassiter.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, J. Edgar and Thelma F. Wilson; his wife of thirty-two years Janice Lucas Wilson; siblings, James E. Wilson, J.C. Stallings, and Jean Stott all of Wilson, and Gail Norris of Randleman.

A celebration of life service will be held at Joyner’s Funeral Home on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 2pm with Rev. Craig Simmons officiating. Internment will follow in Maplewood Cemetery.

Family will receive friends prior to the service from 1 – 1:45 pm at Joyner’s Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson.

Donations in memory of Earl can be made to Daniel’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, 4828 Frank Price Church Road, Wilson, North Carolina 27893.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.