Archie Gerald Wilburn, age 85, passed away April 16, 2022. He was born in Huntsville, AL May 19, 1936. He was known by his grandkids as Daha, his family as Teeta, and his close friends as Jim Tom. He was preceded in death by his father, J.W. Wilburn “Pop”, mother, Sarah Elizabeth Wilburn “Mom”, brother, Joe Wilburn, sister, Marjorie Kathleen Wilburn, and his wife of 60 years, Peggy Peterson Wilburn.
He spent his entire career as a civilian employee for the government at Redstone Arsenal. He loved music and had the gift of playing the piano extraordinarily well by ear without ever having formal training. He loved spending time at the beach and the Smoky Mountains. In their retirement years Peggy and Gerald were well know at Bojangles, Libby’s Restaurant, and Popeye’s, and always had their beloved dog, Sipsie, in tow. Gerald, known for his exceptional style and taste, used this talent to dress and care for Peggy during the last stages of her life.
He is survived by his children, Paula Hamlett (Danny), Jeff Wilburn, Angie McLean, and Amber Wilburn; grandchildren, Scott, Sera Leigh, Carly Rae, Destiny, and Aiden; and four great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers a donation to his favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Hospital would be appreciated.
