James Dean Wilsey, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, coach, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born on May 22, 1939, in Pellston, Michigan, James was the son of the late Harvey E. Wilsey and Alice E. (Milbrandt) Wilsey. From an early age, he demonstrated a remarkable dedication to athletics, and community.

While attending Hemlock Schools, Jim met the love of his life, Joyce E. Otter, in the third grade. Their childhood friendship grew stronger through the years, and during their senior year they were honored as Hemlock High School's Homecoming King and Queen. What began as a young friendship blossomed into a lifelong love story that spanned more than six decades.

During his years at Hemlock High School, Jim distinguished himself as an exceptional athlete, earning an impressive fourteen varsity letters and becoming the first recipient of the Hemlock High School All Sports Award. His athletic talents earned him a football scholarship to the University of Michigan, where he proudly played for one season before returning home to begin the next chapter of his life.

On May 31, 1960, Jim married Joyce E. Otter, and together they built a loving family rooted in faith, hard work, and devotion to one another. Family was always at the center of Jim’s life. He treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating countless memories through family vacations, celebrations, and everyday moments that brought them together.

Jim enjoyed a successful career with Dow Corning, where he dedicated 33½ years of service before retiring. Though proud of his professional accomplishments, he found some of his greatest fulfillment in coaching and mentoring young people. For many years, he volunteered as a baseball and basketball coach in Hemlock, sharing not only his knowledge of sports but also valuable lessons about teamwork, character, and perseverance. The impact he made on generations of young athletes will be remembered for years to come.

A devoted member of Four Points United Methodist Church, Jim lived a life guided by faith, compassion, and service. He was known for his warm smile, generous spirit, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce E. Wilsey, on June 9, 2020; his parents, Harvey and Alice Wilsey; his “best friend” and brother, Ken Wilsey; his sister, Joyce Anaman; and his brothers, Harold and Harvey Wilsey.

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his children, Shelley (Tom) Green, Craig (Darlene) Wilsey, and Troy (Michelle) Wilsey; his grandchildren, Brandon (Vanessa) Weslock, Trevor (Lindsey) Weslock, Justin (Shannon) Wilsey, Garrett Weslock, Jordan (Chase) Wiechmann, Shayna (Gage) Kienitz, Madeleine (Josh) Wilsey, Sophie (Conor) Wilsey, and Elliott (Addison) Wilsey; and his great-grandchildren, Lane, Barrett, Reed, Maverick, Brody, Declan, Lily, Zinnia, and Archer. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will fondly remember his kindness, encouragement, and enduring love for family.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to friend and neighbor Sandy Laundra for the dedicated care, friendship, and love she showed to Jim and Joyce during their later years.

Friends may visit with the family from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 201 N. Miller Road, Saginaw, Michigan 48609. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Four Points Church, 9265 Geddes Road, Saginaw, Michigan 48609, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Pastor Kenny Walkup will officiate. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Roselawn Memorial Gardens.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial contribution in Jim’s honor to Four Points United Methodist Church.

The family invites you to share your memories of James during the visitation and service, or online at www.casefuneralhome.com.