Wilbur Elva Meadows, Jr.

Wilbur Elva Meadows Jr., age 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 11, 2026. Wilbur was born in Rockwood, Tennessee on November 13, 1944 to parents Wilbur and Beulah Meadows, Sr.  Wilbur is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Linda Meadows (née Phillips); his daughter, Amy (James) Johnson; his cherished granddaughters for whom he lovingly called "his men", Tayler (Doyle) Ross III, Rylee (Adam) Watt, Addison (Alex) Timmins, Carsyn Johnson, Lydia and Amanda Chase; many great-grandchildren, as well as several "bonus" grandchildren; and his beloved fur babies, particularly Lucy and Axel, who always looked forward to their evening cookie treats from him. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter and son in law, Jennifer (Jeff) Chase and his grandson, Jarrett Chase.

At the age of three, his family moved to Pontiac, where he would grow up and build the life he loved. He attended Pontiac Central High School and graduated in 1962. Wilbur met the love of his life, Linda J. Phillips, at a neighbor’s house in Pontiac. As the story goes, he walked down the stairs, saw her, and the rest was history. He called her the very next day, and from that moment on, their love story blossomed into a beautiful marriage that lasted 59 wonderful years. After high school, Wilbur proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He served aboard the USS Newport News (CA-148) during the Vietnam War and was honored with the Vietnam Campaign Medal and a Bronze Star for his service. After active duty, he continued serving in the Naval Reserves until his retirement. Wilbur also continued his education and earned an associate degree from Oakland Community College and was a member of the Holly Masonic Lodge #134. Together, Wilbur and Linda built a loving family and a home filled with laughter, good food, and unconditional love. Wilbur worked as a technician for Michigan Bell for more than 30 years. Even after retirement, he stayed busy delivering newspapers for The Oakland Press. Wilbur was known for being hardworking, organized, and endlessly resourceful. He loved to “putz around,” always finding something to fix, improve, or organize. He was so meticulous that he shadow-boarded all of his tools. During his time in the Navy, he taught himself Morse code and developed a love of HAM radio. While traveling the world during his military service, he faithfully wrote letters home to Linda, keeping their love strong across the miles. He also loved cooking and was known for lovinly creating elaborate meals for his daughters. From shish kabobs and Japanese cuisine to fondue nights complete with meats, cheeses, and chocolate, Wilbur enjoyed bringing everyone together around the table. He was especially famous for his jambalaya and had a deep love for Cajun cooking. Above all else, Wilbur cherished his family. He was a kind-hearted man with a wonderful sense of humor who was always willing to lend a hand. A committal service with military honors will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd, Holly. Family and friends are asked to arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to the ceremony. Arrangements entrusted to COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD. To post a tribute, visit www.CoatsFuneralHome.com.

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