Terry Wilson, ‘Wagon Train’ Actor, Dies at 75

Early in his career, Wilson worked as a stuntman for John Wayne, appearing in films such as Sands of Iwo Jima (1949) and Rio Grande (1950).

He’s best known for playing Bill Hawks in 267 episodes of the Western series Wagon Train, a role he held for eight seasons from 1957 to 1965. After Wagon Train, he continued working in Westerns, including a role in ABC’s Hondo in 1967.

Personal life

The actor married ice-skating performer Mary Ann Kramer (later Mary Ann Wilson) on June 6, 1948. The couple remained together until his death and had three children: Monica, Timothy, and Kathryn.

Off screen, he shared close friendships with Ward Bond, John Wayne, and fellow stuntman Frank McGrath.

Health & Passing

After a productive career, health issues—especially heart trouble—began taking their toll. Mary Ann shared in a letter that he “just didn’t have the strength to carry on.” He died of chronic/congestive heart failure in his sleep at his West Hills (Canoga Park) home on March 30, 1999, at age 75

Where is he buried?

Wilson and Mary Ann are buried together at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park in Westlake Village, Los Angeles County.

Legacy

Terry Wilson is remembered for bringing Bill Hawks to life—a rugged, dependable presence who helped shape the spirit of classic Western storytelling.