Wilson Langley

Thursday, December 16, 2004

ESSEX - Wilson E. Langley, 91, died Dec. 14, 2004, at the Cypress Point Skilled Nursing Center at Dexter.

Born Jan. 8, 1913, near Essex to the late Randall Greenfield and Sarah Jane Taylor Langley, he received his bachelor of science degree in education from Southeast Missouri State University and a master's degree from the University of Michigan with honors. In his early career in education he served as a teacher, coach and superintendent. Also he was a landowner and farmer near Essex.

During World War II, he served as a first lieutenant in the 47th Infantry of the Ninth Infantry Division in North Africa, Sicily, Normandy, Northern France, Germany and the Central European campaigns. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Purple Heart with Cluster, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Presidential Unit Citation and the Silver Star in addition to being recognized by the Belgium government for his service.

A member of the American Legion, he also belonged to the Masonic Lodge, the Sons of Confederate Veterans and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Survivors include: one daughter, Pat Crane of Essex; one brother, R.G. Langley of Essex; two grandchildren, Andrea Crane of Dallas and John Crane Langley of Dexter; and two great-grandchildren, Sarah Catherine Langley and Noah Joseph Langley of Dexter.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two brothers, Willie Langley and Harry Langley; and four sisters, Wilma Broxterman, Opal Langley, Susie Corlew and Hazel L. Hardy.

Graveside services will be at 3 p.m. Friday at the Essex Cemetery with the Revs. Doyle Corlew and Ernie Rogers officiating.

Rainey-Mathis Funeral Home of Dexter is in charge of arrangements.