Jerry Wilson

Expert In Adirondack Material And Gardening

Jerry Wilson, 56, of Ridgefield, died unexpectedly September 20, in the Blue Mountain Lake region of the Adirondacks. He was born September 18, 1953. A member of the Magoun Bros antiques team, he was taking part in the Antiques Show and Sale at the Adirondack Museum.

Mr Wilson’s gardening talents are reflected in The Pleasance in Newtown, where he worked part-time for the past six years. A man of many talents, “Jerry Wilson, Gardener” was lettered on the side of his large truck, and that said it all. He was hailed far and wide for his gardening techniques and knowledge and was called by some nurserymen “a walking encyclopedia” when it came to knowing and caring for plants, shrubs, and trees. His truck, outfitted to carry a boat on top, seldom left his driveway without his constant companion, Gus, a large, black Bouvier.

He owned and operated greenhouses on Long Island for many years, and also did window displays for some of the major department stores in the city. After giving up his retail businesses, he developed and maintained many private gardens.

His Adirondack and rustic material was his second love and he spent hours scouring auction ads for objects on which to bid.

 “Jerry was a great guy, knowledgeable and ready to do anything for you. He was just the best friend type, and one can’t ask for more than that,” longtime friend John Magoun said. “We were together for over 15 years during which time we did lots of shows, lugged around hundreds of boats and canoes, and had great fun doing it. His passing was one of the saddest days of my life,” he said.

Mr Wilson is survived by his wife, Robin; his mother; and a brother. A private service was followed by cremation. A memorial service is planned for the future, date to be announced.

The Newtown Bee      September 25, 2009