James “Wilbur” Upshaw

After being raised up working on the family farm, in his youth, Wilbur joined the US Navy, serving his country honorably in the Pacific Theatre during World War II.  After the service, Wilbur worked and supported his family as an Electrician and was a member of IBEW Local Union for over 60 years.  After his retirement as an electrician, he worked as a commercial fisherman, where he affectionately became known as “Fish Man”, catching, processing and selling fish over the next 30 years until finally having to give it up in his 90’s. 

Wilbur was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife of 51 years, Videll Hale Upshaw; his second wife of 19 years, Catherine Upshaw; three sisters, Sylvia Love, Edith Pennick and Wanna Lee Jackson.

James “Wilbur” Upshaw, age 96 of Spearsville, LA passed from this life to meet his Lord and Savior on Friday, August 4, 2023 at his residence, surrounded by his family.  He was born at home on October 26, 1926 near Spearsville to the late Ela Rockett Upshaw and Edwin Phelston Upshaw.  

Survivors include; four children; Randy Upshaw and wife Jo of Spearsville, LA, Eddie Upshaw and wife Pei Sah of Montgomery, AL, Nancy Taylor and husband Tim of Hawkinsville, GA, and Sallie Oxford and husband Tony of Ruston, LA; two siblings, Laverne Shephard of Eugene, OR and Derl Upshaw of Spearsville, LA; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren; one great great grandchild along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends

Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at First Baptist Church of Spearsville, LA, with Bro. James Miller officiating.  Burial with Military Honors will immediately follow at Mt. Union Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home of El Dorado, AR

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the First Baptist Church of Spearsville, where Mr. Upshaw was a member, and attended Sunday school and choir, for all the love and supported shown to our dad over the years and in his final days.

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