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.

Wilbert attended Central High School in Detroit, Michigan. As a young man he was an Honor Boy Scout and a member of the Explorer Club.

In March of 1969, Wilbert married Denise Farmer. From this union three daughters were born: Andrea Love, Candy Love, and Katrina Love.

After the passing of his first wife in 1988, Wilbert later married Charmaine Bryant. From this union he was blessed with two additional children: James Love and Melissa Love.

Wilbert worked faithfully at Chrysler from 1968 until 1998 on the automobile assembly line. He was known as a hardworking and dependable man.

In 2006, due to health concerns, Wilbert moved to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he formed many friendships and was welcomed warmly by the community.

Among his close friends was Boosie, along with many godchildren who loved him dearly.

Wilbert enjoyed collecting shot glasses from different states brought back by nieces and family members during their travels.

His mornings often began listening to gospel music while enjoying coffee and pastries.

On Sunday mornings he listened faithfully to Pastor G. E. Patterson. Wilbert had a deep understanding of scripture and loved discussing the Bible.

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

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; fifteen beloved grandchildren; his sisters, Charlesetta (Anderson) Taylor and Jennifer Thigpen; his adopted sister, Wisetta Dolsey; 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; and many extended family members and friends.

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.