Thomas L. Wilburn

Thomas Luther Wilburn (November 18, 1945 – December 13, 2024)

 With deep sadness, we announce that Thomas Luther Wilburn passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 13, 2024, after a brief illness. He leaves behind his devoted wife of over 49 years, Marilyn Chase Wilburn, of Hingham, MA, along with their children: Jeffrey Wilburn, his wife Ashley Mazur Wilburn, and Sarah Wilburn Pinard and her husband Matts Pinard, all of Hingham. Tom is survived by his younger brother, David Wilburn of Cranston, RI, with whom he shared a strong bond, as well as two nieces, Audrey Wilburn Ricci of Scituate, RI and Jessica Wilburn Reed of San Tan Valley, AZ, and their families. He had great affection for his brother-in-law, Philip Chase, and his wife, Deirdre Dow-Chase of Largo, FL. Tom was the proud grandfather of four beloved grandchildren: Chase Pinard, Mazzy Wilburn, Davis Pinard, and Otis Wilburn.

 Born in Providence, RI, to his mother, Ellen Anderson Wilburn, Tom grew up in a single-parent home where his mother instilled in him the importance of making good choices and pursuing education. His hard work led him to graduate with a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Rhode Island. He went on to have a successful and fulfilling career in construction management, overseeing the building of water treatment plants, as well as various stores and restaurants.

Tom’s successes extended far beyond his professional achievements. A lifelong athlete and sports enthusiast, he played baseball, softball, and basketball. His passion for the games never faded. He enjoyed participating in a 35+ league well into his seventies, and some of his happiest moments came when his son Jeff joined him on the same team, with Marilyn cheering from the stands. Being a parent and coach brought Tom immense joy, often expressing how proud he was of his family. He was a constant presence at his grandchildren’s sports games and milestones, cheering them on with the same dedication and pride.

Tom was always quick to smile and easy to laugh. He chose to view the world through a lens of optimism and his cheery outlook was infectious. He loved being around people. Laughing with Tom was food for the soul. He enjoyed gently ribbing those around him and was not afraid to be ribbed back. He took an interest in all people he came in contact with and made people feel seen. If Tom teased you, he liked you.

Tom’s faith deepened over the years, and he was a devoted member of the First Church in Weymouth, MA, where his presence will be profoundly missed. His unwavering faith, positivity, and heartfelt gratitude guided every aspect of his life. When asked how he was doing, Tom’s signature reply was always, “Every day is a good day!”—a sincere sentiment that he expressed even on the day he passed.

Each summer, Tom loved spending time on his red boat, Cherrystone, with family members and friends. Marilyn and Tom often enjoyed the sunset while anchored on Sampson’s Island or sitting on Dowes Beach in Osterville, MA, where they shared many cherished memories.

Jeff and Sarah remain incredibly grateful to have felt such pure love and admiration from their father throughout their lives. Tom’s devotion to his children was evident in the countless texts and emails he often sent them, always expressing his love, pride, and encouragement. A true Mr. Fix-it, Tom enjoyed helping his children with projects around their homes, often sharing laughs and beers along the way. There was never a moment when his family didn’t know how deeply he cherished them. His steadfast affection left nothing unsaid and no regrets. 

Marilyn and Tom’s marriage was a model of love and partnership. Even after 49 years together, he never missed an opportunity to call her his “beautiful wife,” and he always spoke of her with great affection. Their bond was defined by kindness, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to one another. 

The family will host visiting hours at Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald Street, Hingham, MA, on Friday, December 20th from 2 PM - 6 PM. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at First Church in Weymouth on Friday, January 10th at 10 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Church in Weymouth at 17 Church Street, Weymouth, MA 02189 or to the Wellspring Center at 814 Nantasket Ave, Hull, MA 02045.