Mrs. Elnora Wilburn

Elnora Wilburn, 80, of Peoria departed this life amongst her loving family on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Elnora was born on January 14, 1946, in Lexington, MS to the late Drew and May Lize (Travis) Johnson. Elnora started her education in Tchula, MS and later moved to Chicago, IL where she continued her education, graduating from Marshall High School. Elnora was first employed at Wilson Jones department store. She attended LaTee’s Beauty School. Beginning her career in cosmetology. Elnora also worked in healthcare at Regence Plaza Nursing home. Elnora gave a helping hand to the community and schools of Chicago and Peoria. She is dearly loved for being a caregiver for kids, family, and anyone in need. She raised generations of family both near and far. Elnora was a chef and baker of the times. She loved to cook for family and friends with love. Making creative and yummy desserts, there was nothing she couldn’t make. She was known for her famous” seven up cakes”! Elnora was a seamstress that had a passion for making, dresses, pants, and other types of clothing for her family. Elnora was a faithful member of New Paradise Missionary Baptist Church where she excepted Christ as an earlier age. Later she moved to Peoria, IL where she became a member of New Morning Star Baptist Church. Elnora leaves to cherish her precious memory: two sons: Nathan Wilburn Jr. and Durrell (LaToya) Wilburn both of Peoria; two daughters: Denoris (Lee) Smith and Natalie Wilburn both of Peoria; fifteen grandchildren: Keiana Johson, Korbyn Smith, Bryson Stewart, Narel Shoemaker, Naudia Shoemaker-Wilburn, Nathan D. Wilburn, Xavier Randle, Akeem McCall, Javon Brewer, Malachi Johnson, Khamari McCall, Malik Johnson, Durrell L. Wilburn, MaLia Johnson, and MiDjurel Wilburn; six great grandchildren: Nala Shoemaker, Malayah Stewart, Kinleigh Stewart, Alaiya Hatter – McCall, Malayia Randle, and Raekwon Jordan; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will dearly miss her. Elnora, in addition to her parents, was preceded in death by one brother: Oscar Johnson; five sisters: Elizabeth Meeks, Mattie Keyster, Lou August Robinson, Clenestine Ferguson, and Alice Williams; four grandchildren: La’Naija Johnson, Morgan A. Wilburn, Karter Wilburn, and Omar Johnson. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday March 7, 2026, at New Morning Star Baptist Church (406 W. John H. Gwynn Jr. Ave Peoria, IL 61605) at 10:00 a.m. with visitation commencing one hour prior at 9:00 a.m. Pastor Cleveland Thomas will present the Eulogy. Arrangements were made especially for the “Wilburn” family and professionally directed by T.W. Parks Colonial Chapel. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of “Elnora Wilburn” please visit our Sympathy Store.

Mrs. Elnora Wilburn

January 14, 1946 - February 22, 2026