Verla Mae Wilbur

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Verla Mae Wilbur, 78, of Little Rock passed away Thursday, April 27, 2017.

She was born May 17, 1938, in Cape Girardeau to Wilma Hampton and Clyde Statler.

Verla is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Merritt Gist Wilbur Jr.; and nephew, Jody Markham.

Survivors include her children, Jackie Wilbur Cossey and husband David, Merritt "Tray" G. Wilbur and wife Cheryl and Sandy Wilbur Hubbard and husband Ted; three grandchildren, Leah "Leelee" Cossey Celikel and husband Timur, Leslie "Essie" Cossey Furton and husband TJ and Bauer "Bauer-B" Hubbard; brother, John Martin Statler and wife Carol; special cousin (more like a sister) Margie Reisenbichler; nephews, Travis and Trenton Statler and Ryan Markham; niece, Jamie Hitt; sisters-in-law, Pat Fowler, Marie Peeples and Magaret Peel; as well as other extended family members and friends.

Verla was a warm, compassionate woman with a terrific sense of humor, an infectious smile, contagious laugh and a willing ear. Everyone she met was drawn to her energy and invariably into an interesting conversation as well. She was a talented interior decorator, professional shopper, loved fashion, her fish aquarium and most of all her family. By those who were fortunate enough to know her, she is already missed.

Special "Thank you" to her caregivers and friends at The Manor. She loved so many of you and the family thanks you for the exceptional care.

Memorials may be made to the Lupus Foundation of America, www.lupus.org.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St.

Memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Pinecrest Memorial Park, 7401 Highway 5 North in Alexander, Arkansas.

View the online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.