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In Loving Memory of Rev. George C. Wilburn Jr.
October 14, 1954 – May 4, 2025

Rev. George C. Wilburn Jr. was born on the iconic Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee, a fitting beginning for a life defined by music, creativity, and a boundless spirit. A proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, Class of 1972, George played the trumpet in the marching band and was known for his remarkable singing voice and unforgettable fashion flair.

George was raised in Foote Homes, where his sharp sense of style began early. With the help of his mother and the mother of his good friend Kirkwood, he learned the basics of sewing. George quickly took off with it—teaching Kirkwood himself—and the two were known as some of the sharpest-dressed kids in school. Self-taught in many ways, George often practiced using his mother's old dresses and curtains, much to her dismay. But those scraps gave him the foundation for what would become an exceptional gift.

He attended Porter Jr. High School, where his musical journey truly began. George joined the singing group Soulful 7, where he met the legendary James Brown. He would later perform with and help form groups such as Changing Scene, Circle O Fire, Con Funk Shun, and ultimately The Dealers, who recorded hits like "Loving You" and "Bad Breath." George was a songwriter and composer, with several recordings still available online, including on YouTube.

He also took part in history, marching with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as a Boy Scout—a life-shaping experience that deeply influenced his commitment to service, faith, and community.

George accepted Christ at a young age, and in 1986, he accepted his calling to ministry under the mentorship of Rev. Charles Patterson at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. In 1993, he began serving as Interim Pastor at Rock of Ages Missionary Baptist Church, and in February 1994, he was officially installed as Pastor, a role he held with dedication and grace for many years. His faith remained the anchor of his life.

George's stage presence was magnetic. He even performed at the Freedom Awards, leaving the audience in awe with his unforgettable Bruno Mars "24K Magic" performance. Before his touring years, he launched his first business: "The Dressing Room", a tailor shop that marked the start of his entrepreneurial journey.

While traveling with the band, he met and married the love of his life, Evelina, after just two weeks—beginning a beautiful union that would last 40 years.

George later designed stagewear for ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons, who also played bass guitar on George's original song "Just Say No." He went on to open and operate The Alteration Station for over 30 years, becoming a cornerstone in the Memphis fashion community. Though he was often still sewing as the event was starting, every client left thrilled to wear his creations.

George was a man of many talents and even more heart—a musician, designer, and minister. He also encouraged his daughters in music, writing and producing "Just Say No" and "Sanctify Yourself."

He was the life of every party, never missing a beat with his signature dance moves and vibrant spirit. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he served with Protek Security, where he became a beloved presence at Rendezvous BBQ, banks, movie theaters, and football games.

George was also known for his generosity—giving freely to the Union Mission and always offering help to those in need.

He was one of five siblings, and is preceded in death by his sister Ruthie Wilburn. He leaves behind his siblings: Ruby Wilburn, Robert Wilburn, and Ernest Wilburn.

He is also preceded in death by his beloved daughter Jocelyn Tunstall, whom he loved dearly and carried in his heart always.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Evelina Wilburn; two loving daughters, Julie Whitney (Marlon) and Tamara "Tika" Odle (Chris); seven grandchildren: Juanna Warren, Jimmie Rainey (Hannah), Johnathan Rainey, Marlyn "Coko" Whitney, Braxton Odle, Kayson Mays, and Isaiah Bryant; and four great-grandchildren: Brooklyn Warren, Naomi Warren, Rebekah Rainey, and Josiah Rainey.

He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends, all of whom were touched by his warmth, talent, and larger-than-life presence.

R ev. George C. Wilburn Jr . will be remembered for his limitless creativity, boundless generosity, unshakable faith, and the way he made every space brighter simply by being there. His legacy will live on in every note played, every stitch sewn, every soul lifted, and every life he touched.