John Wilborn, a long-time resident of East Saint Louis, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2023, at the age of 85.

Born on October 21, 1937, John was the fourth child of William and Mary Wilborn. He grew up in East Saint Louis and attended Lincoln High School, where he was an active member of the school’s football team. After graduating from high school in 1955, John enlisted in the United States Army and served his country for two years before being honorably discharged.

After leaving the military, John returned to East Saint Louis and worked for many years as a machine operator at a local manufacturing plant. He was a dedicated worker and took great pride in his job. John was married to his beloved wife, Sarah, for 57 years, until her passing in 2015. Together, they raised four children and several grandchildren.

John was a man of many talents and interests. He enjoyed fishing and spending time outdoors, and was an avid reader. He was also a skilled carpenter and enjoyed building things with his hands. John was known for his quick wit and great sense of humor, and he was always ready with a joke or a quip to make his family and friends laugh.

John is survived by his four children, Michael Wilborn, Sharon Wilborn, Karen Wilborn, and James Wilborn, and his several grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Robert Wilborn, Alice Wilson, and Emma Jackson. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sarah Wilborn, and his siblings, James Wilborn, William Wilborn Jr., Margaret Cooper, and Dorothy Wilborn.

John will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His family and friends will always remember his kind heart, his sense of humor, and his unwavering dedication to his loved ones. He will be forever in their hearts and memories.