Michele Wilburn

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Janis Michele Wilburn, age 62, known affectionately as Michele to her loved ones, passed away suddenly on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. She entered this life on April 6, 1963, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, the only daughter born to the union of the late James and Janis (Rickman) Click.

Michele's early years were spent in the cities of Ft. Worth, Texas, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her family later moved to Pineville, Missouri, where she completed her high school education at McDonald County High School, graduating with the class of 1981. She furthered her education at Missouri State University (MSU) and the University of Oklahoma (OU), where she expanded her knowledge and prepared for a life of service to others.

Professionally, Michele dedicated herself to the healthcare field, working as a Home Health aide and a phlebotomist. Her compassionate nature and skilled hands brought comfort and care to countless individuals in their times of need.

Michele was a woman of many talents and interests. She was an exceptional artist, capturing the beauty of the world around her with each stroke of her brush. In the kitchen, her culinary skills were unmatched, and she delighted in preparing sumptuous meals for her family and friends. Michele's love for animals was profound, and she found joy in the company of her cherished pets. In her younger years, she was known for her athleticism, a testament to her lively and energetic nature. She learned to ride horses at an early age and was an accomplished equestrian.

She is survived by her husband, Wes Wilburn whom she married on April 26, 2015; two children, Sarah Martin of Texas and JR Martin and wife, Brandy, of Oregon; three grandchildren, Aiven Ramirez, Rip Martin, III and Atlas Martin; two brothers, Michael Click and husband, Brian Motz of Nevada, Missouri and Scott Click and wife, Martha, of Anderson, Missouri; 1/2 brother Mike Dobbs; her stepfather, Harold Melton of Pineville, Missouri; and step-siblings, Marjorie Richards and husband, Mark, of Bentonville, Arkansas, Martha Gammon and husband, Wayne, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas and Mary Cook of Pineville, Missouri; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Graveside services are 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at Pineville Cemetery with Pastor Marilyn O'Brien officiating. The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the chapel of Ozark Funeral Home. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.