Mr. Wilbert James Love was born February 23, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Willie James Love and Emma V. Love. He was the oldest of ten children and grew up in a close-knit family where love, responsibility, and faith were important parts of everyday life.

As the oldest brother, Wilbert naturally became a protector to his siblings. During the harsh Detroit winters, when the snow was deep and the winds strong, he would lead the way as they walked to school. His brothers and sisters followed in his footsteps through the snow so they would not get lost or blown away in the blizzard. Those memories became a lasting symbol of the care and protection he always showed toward his family.

Wilbert attended Central High School in Detroit, Michigan. As a young man he was active and accomplished, becoming an Honor Boy Scout and a member of the Explorer Club. He enjoyed his childhood years surrounded by family, laughter, and adventure.

In March of 1969, Wilbert married Denise Farmer. From this union three beautiful daughters were born: Andrea Love, Candy Love, and Katrina Love. Wilbert later married Charmaine Bryant after the passing of his first wife in 1988. Through this union he was blessed with two additional children: his son, James Love, and his daughter, Melissa Love.

Wilbert worked faithfully for many years at Chrysler, where he worked on the automobile assembly line from 1968 until 1998 helping build the vehicles that moved America forward. He was known as a hardworking and dependable man who took pride in providing for his family.

In 2006, due to health concerns, Wilbert moved to Winston-Salem, North Carolina. There he was warmly welcomed by a community that quickly embraced him. He formed many friendships and relationships that became like extended family. Among those close friendships was his dear friend Boosie, along with many godchildren who loved him deeply.

Wilbert enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He loved collecting shot glasses from different states that his nieces and family members would bring back for him from their travels. His mornings often began with a peaceful routine of listening to gospel music while enjoying coffee and pastries.

On Sunday mornings he faithfully listened to Pastor G. E. Patterson. The messages reminded him of earlier days when he would sometimes slip out of one church service just to attend another, including the ministry of Rev. Franklin and the powerful preaching of Pastor Patterson. Wilbert had a deep understanding of scripture and often surprised people with how much he knew about the Bible.

He also enjoyed watching football and spending time relaxing with family and friends.

On March 9, 2026, at 5:53 a.m., Wilbert James Love was gently led home by the angels to be with the Lord.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie James Love and Emma V. Love; his sister, Wilma Ann Wallace; and his brothers, Charles Love, Leonard Barnell Love, Lawrence Love, Nathaniel Love, Kenneth Love, and Keith Love.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children: Andrea Love, Candy Love, Katrina Love, James Love (Candice), and Melissa Love; he also leaves fifteen beloved grandchildren.

He leaves behind his loving sisters, Charlesetta (Anderson) Taylor and Jennifer Thigpen; and his adopted sister, Wisetta Dolsey. He also leaves to cherish his memory his devoted cousin, Terrence Jordan; his nieces, Maria Taylor Cook, Meko Taylor Stinson, and Deanna Stinson; his nephews, Leonard Love, Anderson Taylor II, and Walter Cook; his sister-in-law, Dorothy Feaster; along with a host of extended family members, friends, neighbors, and godchildren who loved him dearly.

Wilbert’s strength, wisdom, faith, and quiet kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Monday, March 16, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30am Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel. The family visitation will be held from 11:00am until 11:30am on Tuesday at the Chapel.