Charles Preston “Chuck” Wilburn, age 59, of Morehead, Kentucky, was born on September 6, 1960, in Ashland, Kentucky, to Charles Wilburn and Judy Jarvis.

Chuck dedicated his career to public service, retiring from the Kentucky Division of Forestry as a district forester in 2010. Even after retirement, his love for the outdoors kept him working as a Morgan County ranger, a job he truly enjoyed. He was a proud Kentucky Colonel and an active member of Phelps Masonic Lodge No. 482 and Better Life Church.

Chuck was a family man through and through, deeply devoted to his wife of 17 years, Melissa James Wilburn. He was a loving father to his daughter, Hannah Baker, and his sons, Aaron Wilburn and Bradford Wilburn.

Chuck lived life to the fullest, always the same jovial person whenever you saw him. He was willing to help anyone in need and took great joy in landscaping, cheering for U.K. basketball, and watching his children’s sports. His love for music shined through in his passion for playing the guitar and banjo, and he took pride in his classic 1968 GTO. Whether it was sharing wisdom, laughter, or a good song, Chuck left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Chuck left this world doing what he loved, surrounded by the things that made him happiest. Though his absence is deeply felt, his family and friends find comfort in knowing he is at peace. His memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his spirit will always be a part of the lives he touched.