William Wilburn

Tupelo - William H. Wilburn, 86, died Wednesday, March 9, 2011, at The North Mississippi Medical Center after an extended illness. An Itawamba County native, he was born December 15, 1924 to Thurman and Ruth Cooley Wilburn. He was a United States Army veteran. Between the years of 1948 and 1965, he worked in Memphis for International Harvester. For 28 years, he owned and operated 45 Automotive Parts store. He also was the owner of numerous commercial rental properties. He loved restoring antique cars, fishing and spending time with his great-grandchildren. He was a member of West Jackson Street Baptist Church.

Services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 11, 2011, at The Jefferson Street Chapel of W. E. Pegues with Sammy Lansdell officiating. Burial will be in Stephens Cemetery.

Survivors include his daughter, Annette Dobbs of Verona; one grandson, Johnny Dobbs (Teri) of Tupelo; three great-grandchildren, Micah Dobbs, Danny Dobbs and William Dobbs all of Tupelo; and special friend, Reba Crow.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Earlene Whitaker Wilburn; and four brothers.

Pallbearers will be, Johnny Dobbs, Micah Dobbs, Danny Dobbs, William Dobbs, Larry Hester, David Cates, Pat Carr, Kirk Kennedy, and Wayne Ray.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 10, 2011, at the funeral home.