Johnnie Warren Wilburn

Johnnie Warren Wilburn, age 80, of Corbin, Kentucky, departed this life on Sunday, October 19, 2025, having lived 80 years, 1 month, and 11 days. He was born on September 8, 1945, in Habersham, Tennessee, and was the son of the late Edd Wilburn and Opal Rookard Wilburn. Johnnie worked as a Communications Supervisor for CSX Railroad and was of the Baptist faith. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Johnnie loved the outdoors, especially fishing, and was an avid history enthusiast with a special passion for the Civil War and reenactments. He loved sharing his passion for history with others and could often be found at Civil War reenactments, bringing the past to life for those around him. He enjoyed evenings spent playing cards and sharing laughter with friends. He also loved line dancing to a good tune and had a lifelong appreciation for bluegrass music. Lake days were among his favorites—soaking up the sunshine, relaxing on the water, and taking in the simple joys of nature. Johnnie found beauty in the world around him, especially when it snowed, and loved to step outside to enjoy the peaceful stillness of a winter day. More than anything, Johnnie loved his family. His children, grandchildren, and all those he cared for were his pride and joy. He was happiest when surrounded by those he loved, creating memories that will be treasured forever. In addition to his parents, Johnnie was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Tammy Wilburn; a brother, Woody Wilburn; and a sister, Shirley Wilburn Kiddle

Johnnie is survived by his three children: Tim Wilburn of Barbourville, Kentucky; Johnnie Wilburn, Jr. and wife Judy of Corbin; and Leasha Reed and husband Jeff of London, Kentucky. He is also survived by four siblings: Bill Wilburn and wife Denise of Oak Ridge, Tennessee; Eddie Joe Wilburn and wife Vicky of Pioneer, Tennessee; Kenny Wilburn and wife Elaine of Jacksboro, Tennessee; and Sheila Wilburn McNeeley and husband Ken of LaFollette, Tennessee; as well as a sister-in-law, Wanda Wilburn of Greeneville, Tennessee and a brother-in-law, Newell Kiddle of Hixson, Tennessee. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Candice Good and husband Chris of London; Karlie Farmer and husband Johnny, and Andi Reed, all of Texas; Dusty Smith (Ashley) and Jerry Perry, both of Corbin; and April Bingham (Matt) of Lily, Kentucky. He also leaves behind eleven great-grandchildren—Cadince, Deacon, Haylea, Noah, Luca, Landon, Camden, Dylan, Josilynn, Kimber, and Lucas—along with a host of other family and friends who will deeply mourn his passing.

The family of Johnnie Warren Wilburn will receive friends beginning at 12:00 P.M. Thursday, October 23, 2025, until the funeral hour of 1:00 P.M. at Bowling Funeral Home Chapel with Tyler Shields officiating. Burial will follow in Wilburn Family Cemetery in Corbin, KY. In lieu of flowers the family request memorial donations be made to Hope Lodge through the American Cancer Society. You may donate online or by mail at P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Pallbearers will be Luca Perry, Jerry Perry, Camdon Moses, Landon Moses, Dusty Smith, Rigel Quinal, Chris Good, Matt Bingham and Noah Robinson. Funeral arrangements by Bowling Funeral Home of London, KY. This obituary notice courtesy of Walters Funeral Home of LaFollette, TN.