Elsie Marie (Wilburn) Boyd

Elsie Marie Wilburn Boyd, a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, and friend departed this life on September 10, 2026, surrounded by unwavering love. She was 85.

Born February 4, 1941, in Houston, Texas, Elsie was the youngest daughter of the late Clarence Wilburn Sr. and Bernice Smith Wilburn. She received her education through the Houston Independent School District. At an early age, she accepted the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and became a member of Damacus Baptist Church in 6th Ward. In the early fifties, her family relocated to the Acres Homes area, where she became a member of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend B. J. Lewis. Her brother, John H. Wilburn was called from Progressive Missionary Baptist Church to pastor Greater New Hope Baptist Church, where she served. She returned to Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir. Elsie carried a light that uplifted everyone around her. Her love for God, her family, and her community guided every step of her journey and inspired a life of purpose and service.

Elsie was a proud and loving mother to nine girls. She leaves to cherish her memories to her remaining daughters: Cynthia Mayes, Karen Ajayi (James), Angela Barrett (Aaron), and Cashandra Taylor. Her seven treasured grandchildren: Davina, Matthew, Jonathan, Taylor, Sadaria, Eunice, and Aerin. Her four precious great-grandchildren: Jonae, Lawrencia, Zayden, and Tinsley and one great-great grandchild Kaci. Her brother, Pastor John H. Wilburn (Carolyn) and Brother-in-Law, Deacon Moses Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and loved ones.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Diane, two sets of twins, her brother Clarence Wilburn Jr., and her sister Ruby Jewel Smith.

Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life that was beautifully lived and deeply loved. Her spirit will forever remain our guide, our comfort, and our inspiration.