James Wilson Hance was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia on January 9, 1931, the son of the late Lilly Franklin and David Hance.

He attended Lylburn Downing School.

He was the running back for the famous Lexington Blue Devils football team.

He was married to the late Alice Peters on September 19, 1951, a union of 51 years.

Wilson was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church, where he served as a trustee, usher, and custodian.

He was a member of the Sportsman's Club and was an avid sports enthusiast.

He retired from Washington and Lee University in 1991 after 36 years of custodial service. He also served as a waiter at VMI for 15 years and also at the Robert E. Lee Hotel.

Preceding Wilson in death was one of three sons, Robert "Peter Gunn" Peters and two brothers, Henry and David Hance.

Those who remain to celebrate his life and legacy are: two sons: Joe Lewis Peters and Frankie Peters of the home; two sisters: Mattie McCall and Mary "Tiny" Williams, both of Queens, New York; three sisters-in-law: Christine Wallace (Arthur) of Lexington; Annie Gray and Louise Bartlett of Buena Vista; two special nieces: Mary Virginia Anderson of Queens, New York and Gloria Douglas of Lexington; a special and devoted granddaughter and caregiver, Phyllis "Candy" Hicks (William) of the home; grandchildren: Dee, Sandy, D.J., Courtney and Stephanie; ten great grandchildren, four great great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Wilson, Mr. Hance, Granddaddy, Daddy Wilson, Uncle Wilson, "Bimpsy", will always be remembered as loving, kind, gentle and wise, a patriarch, a friend, and a saint.

He has left a wonderful legacy for all of us.