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1948
2017
Dr. Ronnie Joseph Wilburn Sr. went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, September 17, 2017. Dr. Wilburn died peacefully at his home after an extended illness. He was born on August 30, 1948 to Ruth and Harry Wilburn.
Ronnie was called into the ministry at the age of 15. He graduated from Delta State University with a Bachelor's degree in education, Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master's degree in Divinity, and received his Doctor of Ministry from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY. He served as pastor to churches in MS, KY and TN. His last pastorate was Meridian Baptist Church, where he served for over 20 years, and remained as Pastor Emeritus until time of death. He was also former Director of Missions in Shelby County, former president of the TN Baptist Convention, and served on various boards of the TN Southern Baptist Convention.
He is survived by his wife of almost 46 years Barbara, children Angela Bryant, Shana Taylor (Jon), and Joey Wilburn (Melanie), grandchildren Samuel Ross, Rheagan Wilburn, bonus grandchildren Lauren, Zach and Adam (Lauren) Taylor, Dusty Wolverton (Lakelyn), and one bonus great grandchild Eliana Wolverton. He is also survived by his brothers Reverend Bobby Wilburn (Sharon) and Ricky Wilburn (Trudy), and many nephews, nieces and aunts.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Meridian Baptist Church. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, September 20, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at Meridian Baptist Church with visitation from 12:00 until time of service. The deacons of Meridian Baptist Church, both active and inactive, will act as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers. The family requests that memorials be directed to Meridian Baptist Church, American Heart Association, or Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home South Chapel.
September 20, 2017
Barbara Williams
So sorry to hear about Ronnie's passing. We have so many great memories with him and Barbara.
My goodness what a gift for heaven! I know all who knew him will miss him terribly, but look forward to the day we all meet again.
September 20, 2017
Brenda Malone
Sorry to hear of Mr Wilburn passing. Will keep the family in pray.
September 20, 2017
Sarah Case
September 19, 2017
Gayna Traverse
I know Bro. Ronnie heard Jesus welcome him home with "Well done, thou good and faithful servant". What a legacy he left, and the lives he touched and the people he led to Christ are beyond counting. So glad Bro. Ronnie was my family's pastor for so long!
September 19, 2017
Terry Buckley
Our first trip to Hawaii with Ronnie and Barbara was in the winter of 2007. Nancy and I renewed our wedding vows celebrating our 30th anniversary. Bro. Ronnie conducted the ceremony one evening near Waikiki beach. We would return with them on vacation to Hawaii five additional trips. Our memories of those trips will be forever cherished! I was also privileged to serve with him as deacon off and on for the twenty years he pastored Meridian Baptist Church. He was a great friend and mentor, and one of the boldest soul winners I've ever met! He fought a good fight and kept the faith till the end. Till we meet again.
September 19, 2017
Neal and Denise Crews
We will always remember Bro. Ronnie with great love. He held a special place in our hearts! Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Barbara and all your family. We will miss him for the rest of our lives here, but oh, what a reunion we will all have with him and Jesus some glad day!!!
September 19, 2017
Pam Curlin. Wyman
Bro. Ronnie was my pastor at West Baptist church. I loved him and his family. I will always remember how he made the gospel come alive by telling a story to go with his Bible sermon. One sermon was What to do when you don't feel like going on. His answer, "Keep on keeping on". So, Barbara I know it is hard for you and each day will be harder still, try to keep on keeping on. Love and prayer from Pam Curlin Wyman.
September 19, 2017
Hazel Boothe
'Expressing my sympathy to the family of Bro. Ronnie Wilburn.Friends with Bro. Ronnie and his parents, Bro Harry and Mrs. Wilburn. Bro. Harry held a revival for us several years ago. We loved them and the family. God bless you all. Mrs. Lamar (Hazel) Boothe
September 19, 2017
autumn porch
Rest in peace Bro. Ronnie. We know you are in your heavenly home with Jesus. Prayers for the family.
September 19, 2017
Family
Jackie Moore
Our thoughts and prayers are with y'all.
September 19, 2017
Mark Trammell
September 18, 2017
American Heart Association
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
September 18, 2017
Family
Sonya Brown
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
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Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Funeral services provided by:
George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home1544 South Highland, Jackson, TN 38301
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