Russell Melvin Wilburn

Russell Melvin Wilburn, age 76, of Collierville, Tennessee passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025 surrounded by loved ones after a long battle from complications due to strokes and heart failure. He was born June 25, 1948 in Lamar, MS to the late Herbert Mason Wilburn, Sr. and Myrtle Estelle Russell Wilburn.

Loving husband to Sherry U. Wilburn of 44 years (09/20/1980). Russell, #4 of #11 children was born in Early Grove, MS. He graduated from Slayden High School and Northwest Community College. A successful farmer for over 50 years and owner of Wilburn Welding Shop. Member of National Local #669 Automatic Sprinkler Union. He worked for Shambaugh and Sons Fire Protection.

He was an avid fan of NASCAR and Jeff Gordon. He is most remembered in his undying faith in the Lord and devotion to his family. His kind heart and child like humor, always laughing with a smile and good mentoring advice. Everyone's nickname most likely came from him.

He was a hardworking pillar of strength with a loving approachability of a giant teddy bear. He will be missed by all.

Along with his parents he was preceded in death by a son; William James McCallum (Jimmy) of Collierville, TN. Brothers; Mason Wilburn, Jr. (Mary), of Joliet, IL, Danny Wilburn (Mary), of Moscow, TN, Sister; Dorothy Mellisa Wilburn of Early Grove, MS.

He is survived by his wife; Sherry U. Wilburn of Collierville, TN, daughter; Melissa McCallum of Memphis, TN, Two Grandchildren; Alexis Scott (Lexie) and Blake Scott of Memphis, TN. Brothers; John Wilburn (Sarah) of Moscow, TN, Leonard Wilburn of Early Grove, MS, Paul Wilburn of Mt. Pleasant, MS, Sisters; Saundra Nunley (Jimmie Dale) of Early Grove, MS, Susan Bolden (Leslie) of Early Grove, MS, Ellen Wilburn of Holly Springs, MS, Beverly Poff (Mark) of Early Grove, MS and countless nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones. Burial will be in the Early Grove Methodist Church Cemetery.