'T' Wilson, former Boeing chairman, dies at 78
Thornton "T" Arnold Wilson, former Boeing chairman and chief executive officer, died in his sleep this past weekend at his home in Palm Springs, Calif. He was 78.
Wilson retired as chairman of the board of directors in 1987, culminating a 42-year Boeing career. He had previously led the company as chief executive officer.
He joined Boeing in 1943, and shortly after became part of the team developing the dramatically new B-47 swept-wing jet bomber. He became company president in 1968 and chief executive officer a year later. He became chairman in 1972.
Wilson was actively involved in the introduction of the jet age for both large military and commercial aircraft during his 42 years at Boeing, noted Phil Condit, Boeing chairman and chief executive officer.
"We are deeply saddened at the passing of a truly great business leader and visionary human being," Condit said. "Few men were more closely linked to the success of Boeing and the global aerospace industry than "T" Wilson.
"His name was synonymous with excellence," Condit added, "and we will deeply miss him."