Jeffery Wilbourn (Lansing)

In loving memory of Jeffery Wilbourn, born on February 3, 1959, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the third child of the late Ruffin Wilbourn and Wilma Wilbourn. Jeffery is survived by his loving wife Estelle Wilbourn, who always called him “her Jeffrey.” Jeffery was called to his eternal home on July 28,2023.

He was a devout Christian, accepting Christ at a young age and finding solace in his membership at Friendship Baptist Church in Lansing, MI. Jeffrey’s devotion extended beyond the church, as he took great joy in serving his community and his beloved church. He would do whatever he could find his hands to do in service of the church.

After graduating from Detroit Public Schools, he embarked on a fruitful career at The Ford Motor Company. Jeffrey’s exceptional skills as a master welder earned him the title of an expert in his craft, and he was so proficient that he also took on the role of a teacher, sharing his knowledge and expertise with others.

His dedication to his work and passion for welding inspired and shaped the talents of many aspiring welders who had the privilege of learning from him. Jeffrey’s impact extended far beyond his own accomplishments, leaving a lasting impression on the lives of those he mentored. His legacy as a skilled tradesman and a nurturing instructor will forever be remembered and cherished by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Jeffery found immense happiness in his love with his dear wife, Estelle Wilbourn, whom he called “My wife” (in Jeffery’s voice). Together, they created a strong and loving bond that will forever be cherished. He cherished her presence, and she brought immense joy and happiness into his life. Estelle and his children were the center of his world, and he always showed her how much she meant to him. Jeffery loved to go fishing with his children and with his wife. If he wasn’t at work or church, he was fishing. Jeffery loved the Detroit Lions and his dog Thunder.

In his time with us, Jeffery touched the hearts of many, leaving behind a trail of beautiful memories. He will be dearly missed by family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace in the arms of the Lord. We know that Jeffery is with the Lord because to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Jeffery’s favorite scripture is John 3:16, For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whoever shall believe in Him will not perish but have eternal life. In his life and his passing, to God be the Glory.

Left to carry on Jeffrey’s legacy are his children, Corey Jamerson, Corey Williams, and Cora Wilbourn (Lena Marie Wilbourn), who meant the world to him as well as his stepchildren from his union with Estelle; Marquita Palm, Ruthie Payno-Simmons, Albert Payno, and Hattie Rutledge; grandchildren, Uriel, and Aliyah; three great-grandchildren; his loving brother, Anthony Ruffin Wilbourn; three sisters, Linda Wilbourn, LaTonia Wilbourn, Lisa Goodwin (Anthony), Rosetta Palm (sister-in-law), and Rebecca Palm-Craig (sister-in-law).

Jeffery was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Re’ayah; and two brothers, Robert Wilbourn and Kenneth Wilbourn.