James Francis Wilbur
Aug. 1, 1943-Sept. 21, 2026
Bedford, Texas

James Francis Wilbur

August 1, 1943 – September 21, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Francis Wilbur, beloved father, grandfather, brother, friend, and longtime Pleasanton resident. James was born on August 1, 1943, in International Falls, Minnesota. His family moved to Pleasanton, California, in 1951, and though he spent his final years in Bedford, Texas, he remained a Pleasanton man at heart. Known affectionately to friends as “Willie,” James was generous, charismatic, selfless, fiercely loyal, and always ready to help those he loved. He could also be stubborn as a mule—but always with the best of intentions. James proudly served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967, stationed in Germany as a secretary and chaplain’s assistant. After his military service, he built a career of more than 30 years with the City of Pleasanton Sanitation Department.

Above all else, James was a father. A single, devoted father to his daughters, Jamie and Christi, he was their protector, biggest supporter, and constant presence. Later, James became a proud grandfather to Nathan, Aidan, Kyle, Shay, and Quinn, who brought him enormous joy. Family was always at the center of his world. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Marjorie Wilbur, and his brother, Robert Wilbur. He is survived by his sisters, Joanne Fowler, Betty Wolfenberger, and Sue Shafto.

James lived fully, with passions that reflected his adventurous and competitive spirit. He loved sports, both playing and watching them. A devoted San Francisco 49ers and San Francisco Giants fan, he also spent many years playing adult league softball and soccer. He enjoyed horse racing and the excitement of watching the ponies. Fishing was another lifelong passion. Whether on a lake, river, or ocean, he was happiest with a fishing rod in his hands and a story waiting to be told. He also loved to travel, taking memorable trips to Mexico, Germany, and Alaska with friends. One Alaska fishing adventure brought him home with more than 100 cans of smoked salmon—a story that captured his enthusiasm perfectly.

James was strong-willed, opinionated, protective, adventurous, generous, and deeply loyal. He lived life his way, and he showed his love by showing up—for his daughters, his grandchildren, his parents, his siblings, and his friends. His greatest legacy will be found in his family, in the miles he drove to spend weekends with his daughters, in the love he gave his grandchildren, and in the countless friendships and memories he leaves behind. For those who knew him, there will always be a little bit of “Willie” in every fishing trip, soccer match, Giants or 49ers game, horse race, and family gathering. And somewhere, we are sure, James has already found a good seat for the game.

He showed up. He loved fiercely. He protected his family. He lived life fully. He was Dad.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 10 at 12:00 noon at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First Street, Pleasanton. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.