Wilbur R. McAlpin, Jr.

Wilbur R. McAlpin, Jr., 81, of Collierville, TN passed away on February 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 23, 1943, in Houston, TX, and grew up in the Jackson, TN area before eventually settling in Memphis, TN. 

After high school, Wilbur proudly served in the Air National Guard. He later found his calling in the grocery industry, where he managed several local stores throughout his career. In 1967, he married the love of his life, Nina Maria (Boldreghini) McAlpin, and together they made their home in Collierville, TN, where he continued his work in grocery management.

Wilbur had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed taking short road trips to small towns, browsing antique shops, and discovering hidden-gem eateries. However, nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating cherished memories with each of them.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Nina Maria McAlpin; his children, Rebecca Lynn Pollard (Jim), Michael Alan McAlpin (Genna), and Kevin Dwayne McAlpin (Joy); and his beloved 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren plus one on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur R. McAlpin, Sr. and Vivian McAlpin and sister Mary Jo Owen. 

Wilbur’s family takes comfort in knowing that he was surrounded by love in his final months and weeks, visited by family and friends who cherished him dearly.

Graveside services will be 2 pm Friday, February 14, 2025, at Powell Chapel Cemetery. There is no visitation. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar are in charge of professional arrangements.  After the graveside service, the family will receive friends at the home of Kevin and Joy McAlpin in Eads.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) in Wilbur’s memory. 

 "Well done, good and faithful servant..." – Matthew 25:23