Wilson John Privitera

Wilson “Gene” Privitera passed away peacefully at his home on July 13, 2026. Born to Italian immigrant parents in Washington, D.C., where he lived a long and colorful life. After serving in World War II, Gene met and married Mildred “Mitzi” Moore; they remained married for more than 50 years until her death in 2005. As a young newlywed, Gene tried several jobs, then formed his own tile company. Eventually, he opted to drive his taxi. His love for helping people and meeting new people was perfectly suited to driving his taxi. Gene was father to the late Harold “Bucky” Buckley and is survived by his daughters Judy Buckley, Cathy Privitera Seger, Gina Yates, son-in-law David H. Yates; grandchildren Tammy Oliver Patterson, Vicki Johnson, Kelly Oliver Pappas and grandson-in-law John Pappas, Tracey Bruening and grandson-in-law Kevin Breuning, Brian Oliver, David A. Yates; great grandchildren Melody Pappas, Tyler Pappas, Elizabeth Bruening and Jack Yates. Gene is also survived by siblings Josephine Privitera Krist and Alfio “Freddy” Privitera. Gene was loved by many who called him grandpa, uncle and Pop Pop and will be greatly missed.

Viewing will be held at 2-4pm and 6-8pm on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at Donaldson Funeral Home, P.A. located at 313 Talbott Avenue in Laurel, Maryland. Funeral Mass will be at 12:00 noon on Thursday, July 23, 2026 at St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church located at 8603 Contee Rd in Laurel, Maryland. Interment will take place at Gate of Heaven in Silver Spring, Maryland immediately after Mass. Relatives and friends are welcome at the family home following the interment.