John H. Wilbanks

** Masks or facial coverings are requested of all visitors to the visitation or service **

Mr. Wilbanks passed away on Sunday afternoon, September 12, 2021 at Magnolia Regional Health Center in Corinth, MS.

He was born in Alcorn County, MS on Sunday, June 22, 1941 to the late John Dewitt and Myrtle Mae Rollison Wilbanks and was a life-long resident of the Pocahontas-Essary Springs community of Hardeman County, TN.

John H. was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. The only things he loved more than his community were God and family. He was known far and wide for his lightning-quick wit and personable nature. John H. never cared too much about himself and would give the shirt off his back in the service of a friend. He never met a stranger, never missed church or a local sporting event. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Mr. Wilbanks had worked as a roofer in his younger years and retired from Dover Elevators (TKE) after 27 years of service. A member of the Essary Springs Baptist Church, he was also past-president of Local S251 of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers, and Helpers, AFL-CIO, CFL.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Joyce G. Wilbanks of Pocahontas, whom he married on April 30, 1976; daughter, Carla Morrow (Mike) of Walnut, MS; two brothers, O. M. Wilbanks (Patricia) of Ramer and Leslie Wilbanks (Kay) of Counce, TN; daughter-in-law, Yvonne Shook of Hickory Flat, MS; eleven grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Rockey Lynn Shook; a daughter, Debra Jeanine Abbott; a grandson, Billy Wayne Hawkins; a great-grandson, Kaden Blake Sanders; an infant sister, Annie Laura Wilbanks; a half-sister; and two half-brothers.

Memorials may be sent to the Essary Springs Baptist Church, 1530 Oak Grove Church Rd, Pocahontas, TN 38061.