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John Wilbur Obituary

Dr. John M. Wilbur VINEYARD HAVEN, MA - The Reverend Dr. John M. Wilbur Jr., former pastor of First Baptist Church in Beverly, Massachusetts, passed away on Sunday September 25, 2011 at Martha's Vineyard Hospital from a cerebral hemorrhage. John was born in Ocean City, New Jersey and lived to be eighty five years old. He spent many years living in New England and cruising the Intracoastal Waterway with his wife Jane, but has lived most recently in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts. John is survived by his wife Jane Anderson Wilbur native of Charleston, South Carolina; four grown children; and six grandchildren. A celebratory memorial service will be held on Martha's Vineyard in June, 2012. Memorial contributions can be made to one of the following organizations: Christian Youth Conference of Ocean Park, Maine, C/O Bob Jope, CYC Dean, 16 Lindsey Street, New Bedford, MA 02740; Grace Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 1197, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568; or First Baptist Church, 221 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA 01915. Visit our guestbook at www.postandcourier.com/ deaths

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Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Sep. 28 to Sep. 29, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
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Gail Young

June 26, 2020

only read about John Wilburs passing in 2015. He was a wonderful person: pastor, husband, father and friend. He performed my wedding ceremony and was one of the ministers who officiated along with Rev Charlie Hood of Royal Side in Beverly over the funeral of my then fiancé Lt Brian Hubis, also of Ryal Side. Their words got me through this verily difficult time. I will always remember John Wilbur and the good times we all had with him... church, Ocean Park, Maine and Ocean City, New Jersey.

Angela Michaud-Mourer

October 13, 2011

John's smile and sense of humor, his mighty laugh and his wisdom will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to live lives touched by him. For me, there's all that, and, even more importantly, the many life lessons learned by listening to John preach. Smooth seas, John, and deepest sympathy to the entire Wilbur Family.

Angela Michaud-Mourer

Dave Murray

October 9, 2011

Thanks for all the great memories John. You helped our family over more than a few hurtles in life. How many great sermons we heard you preach and your untiring efforts to rebuild FBC in Beverly after the fire destroyed our building. Rest in Peace.

Bill and Laura Bender

October 5, 2011

We met John just last winter in Marathon and found him to be such a delightful and energetic man; a real pleasure to just sit and listen to whatever he wanted to talk about. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, John's family, during this difficult period of grief.

Lisa Steedman-Schichtel

October 4, 2011

When my parents brought me to FBC Beverly as an infant for my dedication on Mother's Day 1968, it was Rev. John Wilbur who mispronounced my name...My family, including Grandparents, Aunts, and Uncles from both sides of the family (Steedman and Carlman), along with most of the congregation GASPED! I have been known (by close family and old-timers of FBC Beverly) as lil' Liza Jayne ever since and I warmheartedly remember Dr. Wilbur every time I hear it. I'll miss knowing he's "up north somewhere". My sincere sympathy to his family.
Gott sei mit dir
Lisa Steedman Schichtel

Gwendolyn Rosemond

October 2, 2011

I joined FBC under the leadership of John Wilber and attended actively for many years. I and my daughter had the blessing of learning from and witnessing the works of the Rev. Dr. Wilber. He was truly one of the great pastors, courageously doing God's work in the world. He has been, and will be, truly missed. We would all do well to revisit and rededicate ourselves to the values we learned from John Wilbur.

Doug Bowen

September 29, 2011

Smooth sailing my Judson brother.

Melinda Parry

September 29, 2011

John will always be remembered for his love for his family, his love of youth and his love of the sea. He lived a faithful life and was a blessing to many, including me. My sincere condolences on your loss. God bless!

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