John Delane Wilson, 81, of Lexington, Virginia, died Saturday March 2, 2013, surrounded by friends and family after a long, valiant struggle with Parkinson disease.

He was born in Lapeer, Michigan, one of six children of the late Myron and Helen Wilson.

He was a distinguished alumnus of Michigan State University, and their first Rhodes Scholar and member of the 1951 and 1952 national championship football teams.

Dr. Wilson was the retired President of Washington and Lee University, where he served for 12 years. Prior to this, he held the position of Executive Vice-President and Provost of Virginia Tech from 1975 to 1982 and was also the former President of Wells College in Aurora, N.Y. from 1968 to 1975.

Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Anne Wilson, of Lexington; three sons, Stephen Wilson, of Richmond, Anthony Wilson, of Blacksburg, and Patrick Wilson, of Atlanta, Ga.; one daughter, Sara Wilson, of Charlottesville; two brothers, Patrick Wilson, and Thomas Wilson, both of Traverse City, Michigan; two sisters, Ann DeTar, of Idaho, and Jean Wilson, of Traverse City, Mich.; and nine grandchildren, Molly O'Neil Wilson, of San Francisco, California; Hannah and Joe Wilson, both currently serving in the military; Ashley, Erin and Kevin Wilson, of Blacksburg, and Patrick, Kyle and Rosie O'Shea, of Charlottesville.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Josephine Wilson, of Livonia Michigan. A private graveside service is scheduled for the family on Monday March 4, 2013. A memorial service will be conducted 3 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2013, at Lee Chapel on the campus of Washington and Lee University.

The family wishes to thank the many dear friends who offered support and companionship in his illness as well as the kind and devoted staff of Borden Center at Kendal.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association (www.apdaparkinson.org), or Washington and Lee University.

Arrangements are being handled by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory, Lexington.