Wilbert Frank Stanton Jr.

Sgt. Major Wilbert Frank Stanton Junior, Retired, of Abingdon, Maryland tragically passed away on January 16, 2021 at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center in Bel Air, Maryland at the age of 81.

Wilbert Frank Stanton, Jr. was born in Amonate, Virginia on April 9, 1939. He was the son of the late Wilbert and Jennie (Burdett) Stanton. Wilbert was the loving husband of the late Faith Myrteen Stanton. In lieu of working in the coal mines much like his father had, Wilbert was urged by his mother to find a different occupation. He found his niche in life in welding.

He served 30 years in the United States Army on active duty enlisted and retired at the rank of Sergeant Major. He was a veteran of Foreign Wars. He first entered the Army at Beckley, West Virginia. During his tenure in the Army, Wilbert served in the Ordnance Corps and became an expert welder and instructor for the United States Army Ordinance Center and School. Wilbert had two combat tours to Vietnam and Thailand.

After honorably retiring from the United States Army, he then served 12 years in Public Works serving the people of Harford County. Following his tenure, he then enjoyed retirement, where he spent a great deal of time with his daughter, grandchildren, families and friends. He was a member of the Rising Star chapter #18 Free Masons for over 54 years.

In retirement he also enjoyed Kung Fu, Action, and Western films, tending to his garden, and cooking. He enjoyed traveling and being in the company of his family. He was a lifetime member and Sergeant of Arms for the Motorcycle Club “The Esquires.” Wilbert was a Lifetime Member of the VFW Post #6054 and was the Post Jr. Vice Commander from 2005-2006. He is American Legion member of Post #55. He had many nicknames over the years including: “Stan”, “June-Bug”, “Sergeant Major”, “Pops”, and “Rip Van Winkle”.

His grandchildren were ultimately his true passion. Wilbert is survived by his children; Michelle, Yvonne, and Karla, and stepchildren: Carmen, Kristin, Valanteen, and Jeri. He is survived by his sister; Gearline; 20 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his siblings Charlie, Lilly, and James.