Ron Wilson, a well-known interior designer, died June 1. He was 73.
Wilson was born on April 29, 1938 in Detroit, Mich. He moved to Beverly Hills with his family when he was four years old and has lived in Malibu part time for the past 10 years.
Wilson began his work as a designer when he was 26 years old. His work has been featured in numerous publications, such as Architectural Digest, House & Garden and House Beautiful, among others. Wilson was also named one of Architectural Digest’s 100 best designers and has lectured at the Smithsonian Institute, UCLA and USC. He was also a sponsor of the Ron Wilson Art Gallery at Pepperdine University, which features the work of fine contemporary artists.
Wilson was often referred to as “Designer to the Stars” because of his celebrity clientele. He designed for well-known people like Princess Diana, Michael Landon, Johnny Carson, Don Rickles, Tom Selleck, Kenny Rogers and Eddie Murphy. He also designed 19 homes for Cher. He frequently developed lasting friendships will his clients, who enjoyed and admired his work.
Wilson was also known for creating a style uniquely his own and reflective of the California lifestyle. Those who knew him note that he had an “unmistakable passion for creating space to inspire those who live in it.”
“He was humble, brilliant and added so much beauty to the world and inspiration to those of us who value design,” Wilson’s life and business partner Joseph F. Guidera wrote to The Malibu Times.
Having dealt with a long history of heart problems, Wilson died of congestive heart failure.
Wilson is survived by his life and business partner Joseph F. Guidera, his brother Marvin Wilson and his wife Shirley, and his nieces and nephews.
Memorial services took place at the Hollywood Forever Chapel June 5.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cedars Sinai Heart Disease Research Fund, 8700 Beverly Blvd., Suite 2416, Los Angeles, CA, 90048.