Lynn Wilburn

Lynn Wayne Wilburn, 82, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Lynn was born July 24, 1943, in Port Arthur, Texas to Lorse Wilburn and Audie Laverne Angells Wilburn. On February 16, 1963, he married the love of his life, Patricia Nowell, and together they were blessed with 62 years of devoted marriage.

A faithful member of First Methodist Church, Lynn was deeply involved in the communities in which he lived. He is a Past President of the Pasadena Strawberry Festival and the Pasadena Optimist Club, and he was a Lifetime Member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Lynn owned and operated three businesses throughout his career, including Wilburn Investigators, which he led for 30 years. His work required travel across the globe, where he earned a reputation for his uncanny ability to unravel the mysteries and complexities of even the most difficult investigations.

In addition to his investigative work, Lynn traveled to Kenya, Africa, assisting in drilling and developing water wells in areas where surface water was notoriously scarce—an effort that reflected both his determination and servant’s heart.

Lynn was a Master Police Officer and maintained his commission in law enforcement for 54 years. He was immensely proud of his career in law enforcement, particularly his honorable service as Gonzales County Chief Deputy. Though his passions lay in serving and protecting others, he found great peace at home caring for his cattle. He treasured the simple pleasure of sitting beneath a shade tree, watching them graze, and enjoying a good pipe filled with better tobacco.

Affectionately known as the “Mayor of Dilworth,” Lynn never met a stranger. His friendly nature, steady presence, and genuine warmth earned him a host of friends who will deeply mourn his passing.

Lynn is survived by his adoring wife, Patricia Wilburn; step-sisters, Carol Burchett and Cynthia Lessman; half-brother, Charles Ingalls (Karen); nieces and nephews, Adienne Gutierrez, Andy Ingalls, Anna Ingalls, and Austin Ingalls; and great-nieces and nephews, Greyson, Lyla, and Benny Gutierrez. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2026, at First Methodist Church. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the church with Rev. Dr. Matt Pennington officiating. Honorary pallbearers include Ty Tinsley, Reid Cashdollar, Jason Wauson, Norman Burns, Keith Schmidt, Commie Hisey, Mark Strozier, Malcom Morris, William Glass, Drew Pennington, and Glenn Sachtleben.

Memorials may be made to First Methodist Church. Friends may leave their condolences by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com. Services are under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home