James C. Wilburn

James C. Wilburn "Dugger", 73, Gallipolis, passed away Saturday, March 26 at 5:26 PM surrounded by family and friends. He was born December 24, 1931 in Harland, Kentucky, son of the late David and Mossie Mitchell Wilburn and later a stepfather Alfred Botts. A resident of Gallipolis since 1970, he assisted in the construction of the James M. Gavin Power Plant as a welder. He was also employed by Southern Ohio Coal Company in Meigs County for 21 years. He remained active in the U.M.W.A. as a organizer until health issues arose. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Harland, Kentucky; Member of the Local Democratic party where he was active in campaigning for several years; Member of the U.M.W.A. with various locals throughout Ohio and Kentucky; and a past member of the Archeologist Society. He was also an avid fisherman, conservationist, supporter of the United State Marine Corp, coin, stamp and artifact collector as well as being a man about town.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years Leigh Williams Wilburn of Gallipolis; daughter, Sandy (Bill) McCreedy, Gallipolis; step-son, Mr. & Mrs. Dana Lyons of Paintsville, Kentucky; half-brother, Paul Botts Wynyard, Canada; three step-grandchildren; Mr. & Mrs. Adams Lyons of Paintsville, Kentucky; Andrea and Carrie Lyons of Paintsville and one great grandchild, Audra Lyons.

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 AM Wednesday at the McCoy- Moore Funeral Home, Wetherholt Chapel, 420 First Ave, Gallipolis with Pastor Larry Drummond officiating. Burial will follow in the Dixon Cemetery, Paintsville, Kentucky. Friends my call at the funeral home Tuesday from 5:00 to 9:00 PM.