Wilburn Alvin Jones

Wilburn entered this world on August 20, 1934 in Memphis, Texas and was to become one of five Jones brothers and son to Thurman and Mary Jones. Wilburn was preceded in death by Michael, his younger brother on October 11, 2020. He is survived by his other brothers, Robert (who resides in Pismo Beach, California) Donald (who resides in Visalia, California) and Lin (who resides in St. George, Utah). After moving to Lindsey, California and graduating from Lindsey High School in 1953, Wilburn joined the military in the Army and did a 2 year enlistment in Korea. He returned home and registered at College of the Sequoias where he met his wife, Joann Biliardi. They were married February 9, 1957, had two daughters and celebrated 64 years of marriage last February. Wilburn was surrounded by his loving family and in addition to his wife, Joann is survived by his two daughters, Sheryl Ann and Janice Lynn; son-in-law Tom; 4 grandchildren, Jason, Matt, Alex and Emilyn and 4 great-grandchildren Matty, Lucas, Rose and Otto. Wilburn is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins who reside in Texas.

Wilburn enjoyed a lengthy career in banking and met and maintained many wonderful relationships, both clients and colleagues. During his tenure in banking, he was very involved in community associations including Elks Lodge, Rotary and Chamber of Commerce. Wilburn thrived in volunteering as he enjoyed barbecuing “Santa Maria style Tri-Tip” or taking money at the Speedway and planning all events in the local area wherever money and finance was involved. Wilburns career began in Tulare, California at Bank of America, moving him to Santa Maria and in 1972, transferring to Thousand Oaks, California where he held positions in management and executive leadership. He maintained his residence in Thousand Oaks, however, moved to a variety of locations in the Encino/Van Nuys area where he retired from banking in 1992. Wilburn also enjoyed his sports, but more specifically, the one he played every weekend and took us to fun family outings for: GOLF! He also enjoyed many exciting ski adventures, one even taking him to Switzerland.

As his career flourished, his daughters married and gave him grandchildren, he continued to be the foundation of the family, the financial advisor and chief barbecue expert at all backyard parties...and there were too many to count.

Most will remember him fondly for his exasperating expressions, his honesty and integrity and his laughter! In his younger days, he and his family spent many weekends and vacations camping, growing from a tent to a luxurious motorhome where he traveled coast to coast after retirement with Joann. He was the “host with the most” and everyone: family, friends and employees wanted to enjoy his company. We learned later in life, that he not only enjoyed camping, skiing, and hosting parties but he was a talented artist and woodcarver...WHO KNEW!

In his parting words, we can imagine what Wilburn would say: If you are reading this, I have likely passed away and although hard to say goodbye to those I love, I am truly blessed to have lived such a full and wonderful life. I have watched my children and their families grow, enjoyed the love of a large extended family both in California and Texas and traveled to many wonderful places.

Those we love, don’t go away, they walk beside us every day; unseen, unheard but very near; still loved, still missed and very dear.

-Anonymous

We will always carry your memory in our hearts.