Celebrating the life of
Chris Penn Wilburn
February 20, 1951 - May 18, 2008
Savannah- Chris Penn Wilburn, 57, died Sunday, May 18, at his residence.
He was born in Greenwood, South Carolina, to W.D. and Rebecca Wilburn.
Chris was a graduate of Wofford College in Spartanburg and the Southern Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.
He was the Employee Assistance Coordinator for the City of Savannah for 16 years. Chris used his own unique brand of care, humor, and patience to counsel City employees enduring physical, financial, mental and emotional struggles. A polio survivor, Chris was a source of strength for police officers, firefighters, and many of the city's workers, who often turned to him during the difficult episodes of their lives. Before working with the City, Chris worked with Recovery Place and later was a full-time chaplain at Georgia Regional Hospital in the 1980's. Along with his job with the City, Chris was currently serving as part-time chaplain at Georgia Regional, leading four worship services every Sunday morning.
Chris was a member of Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church where he held many leadership positions, including Chairman of the Pastor Parish Relations Committee. He also was a member of the Church Council, the Finance Committee, the Men's Breakfast Group, and gave the worship announcements every 1st Sunday of the month for about 8 years.
Chris was also a member of the Coastal Empire Polio Survivors Association,
president of the Georgia State E.A.P. and an officer on the board of Consumer Credit Counseling.
He is survived by his daughter, Jennie Wilburn, of Savannah; parents, W.D. and Rebecca Wilburn of Greenwood, SC; brother, Bill Wilburn and his wife Connie of Greenwood, SC; sister, Angelle Reichert and her husband Chuck of Greenville, SC and two nieces and a nephew.
Visitation: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 22, 2008 at the Islands Chapel of Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors.
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m., Friday May 23 at Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church corner of Henry St. and Waters Avenue
Interment: 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 24 at Edgewood Cemetery, Greenwood, S.C.
Remembrances may be made to Renovation Fund, Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church, 1008 East Henry St., Savannah, GA 31401 or Georgia Regional Hospital Foundation, 1915 Eisenhower Dr., Savannah, GA 31406 or March of Dimes, 836 E. 65th St., Savannah, GA 31405.
Please sign our guest book on line at www.foxandweeks.com
We just learned of Chris's death when we tried to find him on the internet. We were good friends during our seminary years at Southern. Right before his death we were in Savannah and had lunch with him. We are shocked and sadden to learn of his death four years after it happened. We will miss his generous spirit, his humor, and his kind and compassionate manner. Rev. Rita Hays
- Rita Hays, Nashville, TN
I'm very shocked and sorrowed to hear of Chris' death. I've known him through the EAP professional group for several years. He was widely respected and loved. His talents were many and he shared them freely. He also had a great sense of humor that served him and those around him well. I will miss Chris. I pray for healing and comfort for the his family. Jim Canup
- Jim Canup, Florence, SC
Bill, Angelle and the entire Wilburn family, I want express my deepest sympathy to all of you. Chris was truly a good guy. I remember meeting Chris for the first time in the first grade on the playgrounds at Leslie Elementary. We were friends from that day forward. I will miss this old friend.
- David Patterson, Greenwood, SC
Chris was a nice person. He will be missed
- Joan/Jack Usher, savannah, GA
We are so sorry to hear about your great loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you all.
- Fant, Reichert & Fogleman, Inc, Greenville, SC
Chris was a wonderful fellow and will be missed by all that knew him. We were so sorry to hear of his passing. We send our deepest sympathies and will be praying for the family.
- John and Gwen Howell, savannah, GA
To all the Wilburn Family: I was very saddened to learn of Chris' death. I have some very fond memories of him back in my teenage years. He was a mighty fine man. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks ahead.
- Howard Padgett, Greenwood, SC
My condolences to all the Wilburn family upon learning of Chris' death. He was a mighty fine man and will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all. Love and Grace, Linda C. Self
- Linda Self, Greenwood, SC
Chris, a dear friend whom I will surely miss. Jenny your dad was a great friend and many of our conversations were about how proud he was of you. We all will surely miss him, remembering his friendly face,encouraging words, and christian attitude. I know Chris is with the Lord now enjoying the wonders of heaven.
- Ronnie Callaway, Savannahg, GA
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy, Leisa Hotchkiss Dot Wise's granddaughter Greenwood, SC
- LEISA HOTCHKISS, GREENWOOD, SC
Bill & Connie, Cassidy and I are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Andy & Cassidy Ethridge, Greenville, SC
Colin and I loved Chris. Everyone at Asbury Memorial UMC loved him. Whenever we saw Chris, we headed his way to be by his side and to talk with him. He was so much fun. It will never be quite the same without Chris in our lives. We are glad to have him in our memories.
- Colin and Jackie Stewart, Savannah, GA
ANGELLE, MY SINCEREST HEARTFELT FEELINGS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.CHRIS WAS SUCH A SPECIAL FRIEND TO MY BROTHER BARRY. I WILL NEVER FORGET HIS LAUGH,HIS SMILE, AND HIS GREAT ATTITUDE. HE WAS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON. ...YOURS FAITHFULLY, STEVE STEWART
- STEVE STEWART, LAKE LURE, NC
Chris; You are an inspiration to us all.
- Patrick Penn, Greenwood, SC
Jennie, your Dad will be missed by so many of us that worked with him at the City. He was always quick with a quip. And loved to talk about you! He was so proud of you. He loves you so much, I know he is still with you spiritually.
- Diane Lightsey, Savannah, GA
Dit and Rebecca: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Betsy Powell
- Betsy Powell, Greenwood, SC
Chris, I don't think I could have made it through high school without you. I always looked forward to class reunions so I could see you again. I will treasure your friendship forever.
- Tommy Cox, Greenwood, SC
Chris was an outstanding Christian man and friend. He was one of the first EAP providers that I met after entering the business. I will always remember his tremendous sense of humor and his absolute resolve to help City of Savannah employees and family members. 'Greater love has no man than this...' Thanks Chris for always being a friend and a joy to be around. Our prayers too the family.
- Dewey Stalvey, Thomasville, GA
Chris: you will be missed more than I can express. Your endearing irreverance will never be forgotten, nor your special place in my and Brian's heart. The 'wedding in the lightening' will forever be one of our precious memories of you. God be with your family at this most difficult time.
- Nancy Wesselink, Canton, GA
I just want to say to Bill, Angell and 'Dit and Becca', I have many fond memories of the early days on Ridgewood Circle...I was always impressed with Chris. I could tell then he was a good guy...and he certainly proved to be that in spades...gone , but never forgotten!!
- Sonny Huntley, Hilton Head Island, SC
To all of Chris's family please know how much Chris was loved and cherished as a colleague and friend. We have spent a lot of time together the past few years doing EAPA stuff and his humor and kindness will have a lasting impact on my life. Please know I am holding all of you in my heart and in my prayers.
- Lucy Henry, Spartanburg, SC
Chris, Of all the people I worked with at GRHS you are the one I admire most. On many occasions your cheerful inspiration saved the day. I am glad to know you. Keith Trawick
- Keith Trawick, Savannah, GA
Bill I am so sorry about your brother. Please know you and your family are in our prayers.
- Linda Brock, Greenwood, SC
Chris will be missed by many as he never failed to give so much of himself to those who needed him. I worked with Chris at Georgia Regional and always admired him for his humor and his incredible strength. He will be greatly missed by many. May his memories bring comfort to his loved ones during this time.
- Janet Edenfield, Savannah, GA
Angelle, Our deepest sympathies to you and your family at the loss of your brother Chris. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
- Steve and Sue Trendy, Columbus, OH
Angelle I am so sorry to hear about Chris. Please know that Roger and I will keep you and all of your family in our prayers.
- Kathy Cheek Troutman, Rock Hill, SC
Chris was always a friendly giving person. He was a support for me as a fellow Employee Assistance Professional. His outstanding character and humor were a reflection of his Christian values. God Bless
- Tony Chapman, Thomasville, GA
Chris, you are truly one of the most endearing and loving persons I have ever known. Tom and I always loved attending the EAP conferences to have the opportunity to spend time with you. You made such an impact on so many people and you will be missed more than you can imagine. May God be with you and your family. Until we meet again.......
- Jane Hayes, Atlanta, GA
Our deepest sympathy is extended to each member of Chris's family at this time. Chris will be missed by all of the employees and Board members of CCCS. We will always remember Chris for his concern and caring of others. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
- BOARD AND EMPLOYEES OF CONSUMER CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICE, Savannah, GA
Chris and I shared a CPE at Candler School of Theology in the mid-70's. I loved his wit, humor and sense of reality. All will be sorely and sorrowfully missed. To his children, I am sorry for your loss of a caring father but practice in your life what made Chris best.
- George Reb Martin, Atlanta, GA
Chris was instrumental in helping me get established in my professional field here in Savannah. That was 12 years ago. Since then we had become friends as well as colleages. We watched our daughters dance together at GGSOD and then go off to college. Chris always welcomed me warmly the few times I had attended Asbury. He was accepting of all people and had a huge heart. He trusted me with on-call assignments when he was out of town. I will remember him as a mentor and a friend. Jennie, he loved you so much and was so proud of you.
- Ruth Foster, Savannah, GA
Angelle, We are so sorry for the loss of your brother Chris. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
- Carl & Debbie Haegel, Alameda, CA
Chris was such a marvelous example of the best the EAP profession can offer. I attended several conferences with Chris and found him an exceptional gentleman. How very sad to lose someone so young and vital. My prayers to the family. Respectfully, Bob Carton, Big Bend EAPA Chapter
- Bob Carton, Tallahassee, FL
What a sad loss for both the family and the city of Savannah. Chris was a great Christian example to all who knew him. I remember his keen sense of humor and his gentle nature. Rest in Glory with your loving Savior, Chris! Well done, good & faithful servant!
- Jack Barrett, Savannah, GA
My sincere condolences to Chris's family. Judy and Chris lived next door to me when they were first married. Chris was such a positive, friendly person. He made a positive contribution to our community, and he will be missed.
- Anita Varner, Savannah, GA
Dearest Chris,our place and lunch time will never be the same without your presence.You will be missed dearly.God only takes his favourites and has place for you in heaven.Our deepest sympathy and prayers to his family.
- Drew,Sonal, Fat Pat's Pizza, Downtown ,Savannah, GA
All of us at North Georgia EAPA are saddened for the loss of our beloved colleague, Chris. Chris touched our lives with his energy, his enthusiasm and desire to help the employees of the City of Savannah. Chris was a founding member and long-time President of the South Georgia Chapter of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association. Chris recently helped coordinate the Tri-Chapter EAPA Conference in Savannah February 08 and the District 2 Leadership Summit. Chris always had a wild story to tell, a question to ask, experience to share. Our thoughts and prayers are with Chris' daughter during this difficult time. Jan Price - President, North Georgia EAPA
- Jan Price, Atlanta, GA
Ginny, I am so sad for your and our loss. Chris was such a wonderful guy whose life was a witness to his faith. It has been a privalege to have him as a friend.
- Ted Larrison, Jasper, IN
My prayer goes out to the Wilbur Family, during the loss of their loved one. May GOD continue to bless his family. Frank White
- Frank White, Covington, GA
On behalf of the Big Bend EAPA Chapter here in North Florida and Soth Georgia, we wish to extend our condolences. Chris was such an asset to our profession and was instrumental in helping us locally become a chapter. Chris's warmth and enthusiasm for life will be remembered by all of us. I personally was included in the Savannah Chapter's fun times a few years ago in New Orleans. His generosity and out going nature was the best of everything that is Southern.
- Melvina MacDonald - President Big Bend EAPA Chapter, Tallahassee, FL
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
- Jim & Frances Brabham, Greenwood, SC
We are so sorry for your loss. Chris was a good friend and co-worker of ours at Ga. Regional. We will miss him and I know that you will also. Remember all the good times.
- Judy and Gary Clark, Bloomingdale, GA
Chris was an outstanding member of our Board and we will miss him. He was always cheerful and willing to help all he met. My prayers will be with you at this trying time. God bless each member of the family.
- Pat Frank, Savannah, GA
Deepest Symathy to family. Served on CCCS Board of Directors with Chris, good man, will be missed.
- Joe R. Brannen, Statesboro, GA
We just learned of Chris's death when we tried to find him on the internet. We were good friends during our seminary years at Southern. Right before his death we were in Savannah and had lunch with him. We are shocked and sadden to learn of his death four years after it happened. We will miss his generous spirit, his humor, and his kind and compassionate manner. Rev. Rita Hays
- Rita Hays, Nashville, TN
I'm very shocked and sorrowed to hear of Chris' death. I've known him through the EAP professional group for several years. He was widely respected and loved. His talents were many and he shared them freely. He also had a great sense of humor that served him and those around him well. I will miss Chris. I pray for healing and comfort for the his family. Jim Canup
- Jim Canup, Florence, SC
Bill, Angelle and the entire Wilburn family, I want express my deepest sympathy to all of you. Chris was truly a good guy. I remember meeting Chris for the first time in the first grade on the playgrounds at Leslie Elementary. We were friends from that day forward. I will miss this old friend.
- David Patterson, Greenwood, SC
Chris was a nice person. He will be missed
- Joan/Jack Usher, savannah, GA
We are so sorry to hear about your great loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you all.
- Fant, Reichert & Fogleman, Inc, Greenville, SC
Chris was a wonderful fellow and will be missed by all that knew him. We were so sorry to hear of his passing. We send our deepest sympathies and will be praying for the family.
- John and Gwen Howell, savannah, GA
To all the Wilburn Family: I was very saddened to learn of Chris' death. I have some very fond memories of him back in my teenage years. He was a mighty fine man. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks ahead.
- Howard Padgett, Greenwood, SC
My condolences to all the Wilburn family upon learning of Chris' death. He was a mighty fine man and will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all. Love and Grace, Linda C. Self
- Linda Self, Greenwood, SC
Chris, a dear friend whom I will surely miss. Jenny your dad was a great friend and many of our conversations were about how proud he was of you. We all will surely miss him, remembering his friendly face,encouraging words, and christian attitude. I know Chris is with the Lord now enjoying the wonders of heaven.
- Ronnie Callaway, Savannahg, GA
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy, Leisa Hotchkiss Dot Wise's granddaughter Greenwood, SC
- LEISA HOTCHKISS, GREENWOOD, SC
Bill & Connie, Cassidy and I are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Andy & Cassidy Ethridge, Greenville, SC
Colin and I loved Chris. Everyone at Asbury Memorial UMC loved him. Whenever we saw Chris, we headed his way to be by his side and to talk with him. He was so much fun. It will never be quite the same without Chris in our lives. We are glad to have him in our memories.
- Colin and Jackie Stewart, Savannah, GA
ANGELLE, MY SINCEREST HEARTFELT FEELINGS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.CHRIS WAS SUCH A SPECIAL FRIEND TO MY BROTHER BARRY. I WILL NEVER FORGET HIS LAUGH,HIS SMILE, AND HIS GREAT ATTITUDE. HE WAS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON. ...YOURS FAITHFULLY, STEVE STEWART
- STEVE STEWART, LAKE LURE, NC
Chris; You are an inspiration to us all.
- Patrick Penn, Greenwood, SC
Jennie, your Dad will be missed by so many of us that worked with him at the City. He was always quick with a quip. And loved to talk about you! He was so proud of you. He loves you so much, I know he is still with you spiritually.
- Diane Lightsey, Savannah, GA
Dit and Rebecca: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Betsy Powell
- Betsy Powell, Greenwood, SC
Chris, I don't think I could have made it through high school without you. I always looked forward to class reunions so I could see you again. I will treasure your friendship forever.
- Tommy Cox, Greenwood, SC
Chris was an outstanding Christian man and friend. He was one of the first EAP providers that I met after entering the business. I will always remember his tremendous sense of humor and his absolute resolve to help City of Savannah employees and family members. 'Greater love has no man than this...' Thanks Chris for always being a friend and a joy to be around. Our prayers too the family.
- Dewey Stalvey, Thomasville, GA
Chris: you will be missed more than I can express. Your endearing irreverance will never be forgotten, nor your special place in my and Brian's heart. The 'wedding in the lightening' will forever be one of our precious memories of you. God be with your family at this most difficult time.
- Nancy Wesselink, Canton, GA
I just want to say to Bill, Angell and 'Dit and Becca', I have many fond memories of the early days on Ridgewood Circle...I was always impressed with Chris. I could tell then he was a good guy...and he certainly proved to be that in spades...gone , but never forgotten!!
- Sonny Huntley, Hilton Head Island, SC
To all of Chris's family please know how much Chris was loved and cherished as a colleague and friend. We have spent a lot of time together the past few years doing EAPA stuff and his humor and kindness will have a lasting impact on my life. Please know I am holding all of you in my heart and in my prayers.
- Lucy Henry, Spartanburg, SC
Chris, Of all the people I worked with at GRHS you are the one I admire most. On many occasions your cheerful inspiration saved the day. I am glad to know you. Keith Trawick
- Keith Trawick, Savannah, GA
Bill I am so sorry about your brother. Please know you and your family are in our prayers.
- Linda Brock, Greenwood, SC
Chris will be missed by many as he never failed to give so much of himself to those who needed him. I worked with Chris at Georgia Regional and always admired him for his humor and his incredible strength. He will be greatly missed by many. May his memories bring comfort to his loved ones during this time.
- Janet Edenfield, Savannah, GA
Angelle, Our deepest sympathies to you and your family at the loss of your brother Chris. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
- Steve and Sue Trendy, Columbus, OH
Angelle I am so sorry to hear about Chris. Please know that Roger and I will keep you and all of your family in our prayers.
- Kathy Cheek Troutman, Rock Hill, SC
Chris was always a friendly giving person. He was a support for me as a fellow Employee Assistance Professional. His outstanding character and humor were a reflection of his Christian values. God Bless
- Tony Chapman, Thomasville, GA
Chris, you are truly one of the most endearing and loving persons I have ever known. Tom and I always loved attending the EAP conferences to have the opportunity to spend time with you. You made such an impact on so many people and you will be missed more than you can imagine. May God be with you and your family. Until we meet again.......
- Jane Hayes, Atlanta, GA
Our deepest sympathy is extended to each member of Chris's family at this time. Chris will be missed by all of the employees and Board members of CCCS. We will always remember Chris for his concern and caring of others. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
- BOARD AND EMPLOYEES OF CONSUMER CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICE, Savannah, GA
Chris and I shared a CPE at Candler School of Theology in the mid-70's. I loved his wit, humor and sense of reality. All will be sorely and sorrowfully missed. To his children, I am sorry for your loss of a caring father but practice in your life what made Chris best.
- George Reb Martin, Atlanta, GA
Chris was instrumental in helping me get established in my professional field here in Savannah. That was 12 years ago. Since then we had become friends as well as colleages. We watched our daughters dance together at GGSOD and then go off to college. Chris always welcomed me warmly the few times I had attended Asbury. He was accepting of all people and had a huge heart. He trusted me with on-call assignments when he was out of town. I will remember him as a mentor and a friend. Jennie, he loved you so much and was so proud of you.
- Ruth Foster, Savannah, GA
Angelle, We are so sorry for the loss of your brother Chris. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
- Carl & Debbie Haegel, Alameda, CA
Chris was such a marvelous example of the best the EAP profession can offer. I attended several conferences with Chris and found him an exceptional gentleman. How very sad to lose someone so young and vital. My prayers to the family. Respectfully, Bob Carton, Big Bend EAPA Chapter
- Bob Carton, Tallahassee, FL
What a sad loss for both the family and the city of Savannah. Chris was a great Christian example to all who knew him. I remember his keen sense of humor and his gentle nature. Rest in Glory with your loving Savior, Chris! Well done, good & faithful servant!
- Jack Barrett, Savannah, GA
My sincere condolences to Chris's family. Judy and Chris lived next door to me when they were first married. Chris was such a positive, friendly person. He made a positive contribution to our community, and he will be missed.
- Anita Varner, Savannah, GA
Dearest Chris,our place and lunch time will never be the same without your presence.You will be missed dearly.God only takes his favourites and has place for you in heaven.Our deepest sympathy and prayers to his family.
- Drew,Sonal, Fat Pat's Pizza, Downtown ,Savannah, GA
All of us at North Georgia EAPA are saddened for the loss of our beloved colleague, Chris. Chris touched our lives with his energy, his enthusiasm and desire to help the employees of the City of Savannah. Chris was a founding member and long-time President of the South Georgia Chapter of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association. Chris recently helped coordinate the Tri-Chapter EAPA Conference in Savannah February 08 and the District 2 Leadership Summit. Chris always had a wild story to tell, a question to ask, experience to share. Our thoughts and prayers are with Chris' daughter during this difficult time. Jan Price - President, North Georgia EAPA
- Jan Price, Atlanta, GA
Ginny, I am so sad for your and our loss. Chris was such a wonderful guy whose life was a witness to his faith. It has been a privalege to have him as a friend.
- Ted Larrison, Jasper, IN
My prayer goes out to the Wilbur Family, during the loss of their loved one. May GOD continue to bless his family. Frank White
- Frank White, Covington, GA
On behalf of the Big Bend EAPA Chapter here in North Florida and Soth Georgia, we wish to extend our condolences. Chris was such an asset to our profession and was instrumental in helping us locally become a chapter. Chris's warmth and enthusiasm for life will be remembered by all of us. I personally was included in the Savannah Chapter's fun times a few years ago in New Orleans. His generosity and out going nature was the best of everything that is Southern.
- Melvina MacDonald - President Big Bend EAPA Chapter, Tallahassee, FL
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
- Jim & Frances Brabham, Greenwood, SC
We are so sorry for your loss. Chris was a good friend and co-worker of ours at Ga. Regional. We will miss him and I know that you will also. Remember all the good times.
- Judy and Gary Clark, Bloomingdale, GA
Chris was an outstanding member of our Board and we will miss him. He was always cheerful and willing to help all he met. My prayers will be with you at this trying time. God bless each member of the family.
- Pat Frank, Savannah, GA
Deepest Symathy to family. Served on CCCS Board of Directors with Chris, good man, will be missed.
- Joe R. Brannen, Statesboro, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
