Edwin Lamar Wilbanks

Edwin Lamar Wilbanks passed away on September 29, 2024, at his home in, Tyler Texas. Ed was born on May 28, 1929, in Golden Texas. The family relocated to Malakoff, Texas about 12 years later where he graduated from Malakoff High School as the Valedictorian. Though he was offered several scholarships, Ed elected to attend Henderson County Junior College initially planning to be an Architect. Before finishing his education, he enlisted in the US Air Force where he earned the rank of 1st Lieutenant. His primary duty was as a Navigator. He served in the Korean War and at its end was transferred to the Strategic Air Command where he completed his military enlistment. Following his time in the Air Force, Ed married Erma Wilbanks and they moved to Austin, Texas where he enrolled at the University of Texas to continue his education. Ed had two sons, Richard (deceased), and Robert Wilbanks. In 1959 Ed graduated with a BS in Petroleum Engineering. In 1964, Ed went to work for Union 76 of California which later became Unocal. His time with Unocal began his career in Van, Texas. After a year of training, he was transferred to Southeast Louisiana. Ed moved up in his career and over time, became the senior manager over Southeast Louisiana onshore production. In 1984 Erma passed away. Following her death Ed was transferred back to Van where he finished his professional career having spent the entire time with Unocal. It was a full circle having started his career in Van as an entry level Petroleum Engineer; then completing it at the same location as the District Production Manager, East Texas District, Texas/Southeastern Region. He was a start-to-finish guy, hardworking and was greatly admired by his co-workers and staff as well as the Unocal management. When Ed was transferred to Van, he decided to live in Tyler, Texas where he met his wife, Ann Wilbanks. It was not long before they both determined to start up a new chapter in their lives. Ann had two children from a previous marriage, Cindy Stinson (deceased) and Roy Green. Ed described Ann as the love of his life. They were married for 34 years. Both families came together as one. Ed and Ann were members of Flint Baptist Church in Flint, Texas, being very active and supportive of the work. A Deacon who set a very high standard of stewardship and service, Ann supported and actively participated with Ed and both had a heart for the lost and to further the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Ed is preceded in death by his mother, Hester Brown Wilbanks, father Richard Claud Wilbanks, son Richard Wilbanks, daughter Cindy Stinson, sister Winnie Wilbanks Arnold, and a niece Sharon Moore. Ed is survived by his loving wife, Ann Wilbanks; son Roy Green; son Robert Wilbanks; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He and Ann began retirement in 1992 traveling extensively to several countries and all but 1 state as a couple. They enjoyed spending time and experiencing life together. For many years they facilitated the seniors’ group at Friendly Baptist prior to moving to Flint Baptist. Ed will be greatly missed. Services for Ed will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Flint Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Tyler Memorial Park in Tyler. Visitation is scheduled one hour prior to service.

Edwin Lamar Wilbanks

May 28, 1929 - September 29, 2024