Darris Virginia Wilbourn

Darris Virginia Wilbourn, 98, of Caddo Valley, Arkansas died June 20, 2022, in her sleep. She was born December 11, 1923, at home in Blytheville Arkansas. She was the daughter of Buford Maxwell and Ella Hardin Maxwell, sharecroppers in Mississippi County. She was the eldest of 5 children, sister of Gladys, brother of Shields, brother of Carl, sister of Molly. 

She was preceded by her husband, of 74 years, Ed Wilbourn and all brothers and sisters except Carl Maxwell. She is survived by her daughter Linda Holway, son Ed Wilbourn and wife Patti, two grandsons Michael Wilbourn and his wife Trinity, Matthew Holway, and his wife Jen. Also survived by 8 great grandchildren and 8 nieces and nephews. 

Darris as a child, helped with chores on the 40 acres her dad farmed until he succumbed to Tuberculosis when she was 12years old. Her mom kept the family together and provided the best she could. Darris met Ed while the were both working at Hays General Store in Blytheville, Arkansas. She was just 17 when they were married on February 11, 1940 and remained so until 2015 when Ed passed away. 

Darris and Ed had quite an adventure from Arkansas to California, to Venezuela, back to California, Colorado, and back home to Arkansas. While in California during the 40’s and 50’s Darris worked as a nurse’s aide at the General Hospital and eventually a nurse at a MD office. She learned skills that allowed her to become a wonderful care giver to children and church members wherever she went. 

Perhaps Darris was best known for her fried fruit pies and fresh strawberry pies.  Almost everyone she knew got more than one. She loved to cook and especially loved church socials and potlucks. Hospitality was truly her spiritual gift. Her gift matched up well as a ministry for providing young church members a place for fellowship, a meal, and lots of prayers for each of them. 

Darris’s Life was an example of Faith, Hope, Humility, and being Content in whatever her state.

Graveside services are scheduled for Saturday, July 2, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. in the Caddo Valley Baptist Church Cemetery with Scott Duvall officiating. 

In lieu of flowers please give donations to the youth department at The Fellowship Church at 2401 Pine Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923.