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Mr. James Corde “Jimmy” Wilson, Jr. died peacefully early Saturday morning, May 6th, surrounded by his family.  Jimmy touched many lives, and folks knew him by many nicknames, Uncle Jimmy, Jimbo, Big Jim, Pops, among others.

Jimmy was born in Chester, Pennsylvania on September 22nd, 1946 on a family vacation.  His mother and father lived in Savannah, GA at the time of his birth, and he grew up in the Ardsley Park neighborhood where he made many lifelong friends. He graduated from Savannah High School in 1964.  Big Jim enlisted in the United States Navy immediately after high school.  Jimbo graduated Magna Cum Laude (not really) from Georgia Southern College with a  bachelor's degree in Accounting in 1972.  During college he began dating the love of his life, Barbara “Barbie” Martin.   They were married in July of 1971 at Ellabell United Methodist Church..  Barbie and Jimmy bought their lifelong home in 1974 on Robin Road in Savannah, GA where many reading this have enjoyed their generous hospitality.  The door was always open.

After graduating from Georgia Southern College Jimbo began his homebuilding career working for Metro Development before launching his own business, James Corde Company.  In 1985 Jimmy and Louis Young partnered to create Great American Builders where they became the largest homebuilder in the Savannah market.  He was the president of the Homebuilders Association of Greater Savannah, won many accolades for his efforts in building affordable housing, and was inducted in the Home Builders Association Hall of Fame.

Jimmy and Barbie had three wonderful children, James Corde Wilson, III, Candler Martin Wilson, and Arden Ameila Wilson Bartlett.  All three of their children reside in Savannah, GA.  In addition to their home in Savannah, the Wilson Family had a vacation home in Elbow Cay in the Abacos of the Bahamas.  Jimmy loved nothing more than reading a book sitting over the Atlantic Ocean while sipping a big glass of red wine.  He was always looking for that next wave while listening to classical hits such as Play That Funky Music White Boy.  While in the Bahamas he also loved to go to the bar at the Abaco Inn and tell tall tales.  Abaco Inn and Driftaway in Sandfly may not make their budget this year without Jimmy’s patronage.

Big Jim was a an avid college football fan of both Georgia Southern and University of Georgia.  He has witnessed multiple National Titles by both schools and attended the 1982 Heisman Trophy Presentation also attended by none other than Uga, himself.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, Pearl and James C. Wilson, Sr., as well as his brothers Frank and Ernie and sister Cynthia.  In addition to his wife, Barbie,  Pops is survived by his son Corde (Carson), Candler (Kathleen), Arden (Spencer) his sister, Pam, his grandchildren Stafford, Breck, Tate, Cole, Bayne, Bryce, and Pearson, as well as many nieces and nephews.

There will be a funeral service at Isle of Hope United Methodist Church on Wednesday May 10th at 12:30 followed by a celebration of Uncle Jimbo’s incredible life at the Palmetto Club at The Landings at 2:00.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the 200 Club, 200 East Saint Julian Street, Suite 501, Savannah, GA 31401 or go to www.our200club.com .

Jean and I are truly saddened hearing the news of Jimmy's passing. We met over 40 years ago and maintained a friendship over those eons. Our love is reaching out to Barbie, Candler and Corde and the grandchildren. He was a grand Savannahian who invested his time, love, and money in helping to make Savannah a better place for us all...... Mike Vaquer , Savannah , GA Barbie, Corde, Candler and Arden, you and your family are in our prayers. When I think of Jimmy, I don't think of him as a Home Builder - he was that and so much more. He was such a positive influence on everyone that he came into contact with. He is missed, but lives on in you and many more. Jim and Christine Walker , Woodstock , GA My family is saddened to learn of Jimmy's passing. He was an amazing person who welcomed my family to Savannah and Country Day with warm hospitality. My father (Kirk) loved working with Jimmy on the Country Day board of directors. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the Wilson family at this time. Jeff Cressman , Madison , WI Dear Barbie, Corde, Candler, and Arden, As I’m sure you know, your Dad was loved by everyone just as your Mother is. What a special couple! They were devoted to each other, and set a wonderful example for you. My prayer for all of you is that you will cherish the wonderful memories and great times that you all shared together. I pray that these memories will comfort and sustain you now and always. With love and sympathy, Jan Jan Daniel Crawford , Virginia Beach , Va. Dear Barbie and family , please accept our sincere condolences, we have many fond memories of our times together in Abaco, May God give you strength and peace Michael and Patte Myers , Hope Town , Abaco , Bahamas