RJ Wilbanks

RJ Wilbanks, 99, of Batavia, IL and formerly of Olive Branch, MS, passed away Monday, December 27, 2021, at his home surrounded by his loving family.  He was born December 3, 1922, in Ripley, MS the son of William and Merley (Medford) Wilbanks.  He was united in marriage to Mary Ruth Jamieson May 9, 1947, in Durant, MS.

RJ was a proud veteran who served in the United States Army during World War II.  RJ worked 30 years in the insurance profession as a salesman.  He then worked another 35 years as a real estate agent for Crye-Leike Reality.  RJ was also very active with his faith where he was a member of the United Methodist Church in both Memphis, TN and Olive Branch, MS.  

He is survived by his loving wife Mary; his daughter Judy (Michael) Van Houten; three grandchildren, Eric (Christina) Van Houten, Lindsay Van Houten and Jason Van Houten, one great-granddaughter, Olivia Van Houten; a sister Alma Gray and many nieces and nephews.  

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his four other sisters and four brothers.

To honor RJ’s wishes he will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Wounded Warrior Fund in R J’s memory.