Marie "Betty" Elizabeth Wilburn

Betty Wilburn, age 88, unexpectedly traded her earthly keys for a heavenly choir pass on June 4, 2026 in Georgetown, TX. We are entirely convinced she was greeted at the Pearly Gates by a fabulous ensemble of marimba, accordion, piano and organ, brass, strings, booming bass and drums sprinkled with steel pan players. Perhaps a chorus of purring cats.

Marie Elizabeth Wilburn was born in Tegucigalpa, the capital of the Republic of Honduras, to proud parents, William A. Bahr and Marie Coleman Bahr on October 10, 1937. Betty spent her formative years at Forrest County Agricultural High School in Brooklyn, Mississippi, before embarking on a life filled with devotion, both to her family and community.

Betty lived life with the volume turned all the way up.

Her heart was as big as her playlist, and it always had room for God’s creatures. While she loved all critters, cats were her undisputed favorite. She spoke "Meow" fluently, never met a stray she wouldn't try to adopt, and we are fairly certain her clothes were 40% fabric and 60% cat hair.

Her deep faith in God wasn't just practiced in church; it was lived out through her hands-on generosity. She was the first to show up with a helping hand, a listening ear, or a warm meal for anyone in need. Betty and Earl (her now deceased husband) were devout Christians and were members of the Church of Christ. They enjoyed bible studies & singing hymns, while they helped others to keep the love of God and Christ in their lives.

Betty was the beloved wife of the late Earl Farrell Wilburn, a dedicated Marine Corps veteran. Throughout Earl's military career, Betty was a steadfast military spouse, supporting her husband through numerous relocations, embodying the resilience and strength required of those who serve behind the scenes. Betty enjoyed a successful 18-year career in sales, working in the fragrance department at Foley's. Her warm presence and keen sense of style made her a favorite among customers and colleagues alike.

Betty also loved the fishing and camping adventures with Earl and sometimes with close friends like Pat and Jay. In fact, a most memorable adventure was just after the 4 of them retired. They sold their homes, placed their stuff in storage, bought (or rented) large motor homes to tour the US, Canada and Alaska for 1 year before moving to Texas for their final retirement location. They even had scooters on the back of the RVs for fun and quick trips to the store at all the camping stops. Close friends who moved to other states in the US would sometimes rendezvous with the 2 couples at special places for added fun.

As for foods, Betty was a certified, card-carrying foodie. She didn't just eat; she celebrated food and enjoyed it with family and friends. She also loved joining the conga line of relatives in the kitchen to bake all the family favorites during the family reunions. A great meal was a spiritual experience for her, and she spent her best days exploring new flavors, scouting out hidden gems, and feeding the people she loved. There was nothing like the great Bahr family jam after the great meals with Betty on piano, organ or accordion joined by her brothers Bobby (now deceased) and Johnny to play different styles from Polka, Latin, Caribbean, classic tunes from the 40’s, 50’s and more. The other reunion relatives would grab any other instrument laying around, like maracas, bongos, tambourine, guitar, extra keyboards, etc. to jam along in the musical malay. Sometimes she would play dueling keys with her daughter Eileen; sometimes Brian (her son) would join with his drums or bongos.

While our world is a lot quieter without her, we take comfort knowing she is currently throwing a massive feast in heaven, surrounded by cats, and finally listening to (or playing) the universe’s greatest hits. We all will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William A. Bahr and Marie Coleman; husband, Earl Farrell Wilburn; brothers, William Robert "Bobby" Bahr and James Wallace Bahr; sister, Anita Indalecia Zepeda; and grandson, Derek Wilburn.

Betty is survived by her children, Brian Earl Wilburn and Eileen Elizabeth Roach; her brother, John Frederick Bahr; grandchildren, April Gentile, Brandon Wilburn; and great-grandchildren, Madison (now Amelia) Long, Daylynn Long, Zoey Wilburn, Jace Wilburn, and Zada McConnell.

She leaves behind a family she adored, a legacy of kindness, and a playlist we promise to play on loop. Betty's family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Annette and Bill Robinson for their wonderful care taken with Betty during her illness.

Instead of a somber mourning service, we are throwing a party worthy of her spirit. A visitation will be held at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 2620 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, on June 22, 2026, from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Attendees are encouraged to wear bright colors and bring smiles in celebration of Betty’s vibrant life. A committal service will follow on June 23, 2026, from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm at Committal Shelter #3, Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX. This will be a time to honor her life and legacy, reflecting the strength and brightness she brought to the lives of those around her.

In lieu of flowers, Betty would love for you to make a donation to a local no kill animal shelter such as APA! Tarrytown Cattery (https://www.austinpetsalive.org/) or other no kill shelters in Austin or simply buy a great meal for someone who needs it.