Wilbert Lee Colquitt

Wilbert Lee “Red” Colquitt, age 88, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, in Corpus Christi, Texas, leaving behind a life defined by service, laughter, and a deep love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and for all those he knew.

Born in 1938 in Crandall, Texas, Red began his career with the Dallas Fire Department in 1956. He proudly served the city for many years, rising to the rank of Captain of Public Relations. In 1975, he followed his heart in a new direction, becoming Director of Mount Lebanon Baptist Camp—a role that was far more than a job to him. It was a calling, and one he embraced fully until his retirement in 1990. Even then, Red never truly stopped working, because serving people was simply who he was. In retirement, he and his beloved wife, Mary Lou, traveled across the United States, supporting camp managers and forming lasting friendships wherever they went.He later served as Executive Director of Tarrant Baptist Encampment (now Riverbend Retreat Center) until 1993, when a life-altering injury changed the course of his life and career. Yet through his physical challenges, Red continued to serve in Christian camp leadership—as a consultant, mentor, and interim director for camps across the nation—until 2013.

To know Red was to be welcomed with a smile, a story, and often one of his famously corny jokes. He had a playful way of catching people off guard—especially waitstaff—by looking them straight in the eye, ordering “two of these, please,” while holding up three fingers. It was a small joke, but it never failed to get a laugh. He had a way of making people feel seen and valued, whether they had known him for years or had just met him. His kindness was constant, his laughter contagious, and his joy in life unmistakable. He loved deeply, gave generously, and left an impression on countless lives—many of whom will carry a piece of his spirit forward.

Red is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Mary Lou Colquitt; his sons, Phil (Leslie), Andy (Susan), and Chris (Melanie); and his grandchildren, Cristi (David), Whitney (Andy), Tessie (Kenny), Zac (Elena), and Heather, and 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a constant source of pride and joy in his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Odie and Angie Colquitt, and his sister, Janell.

A memorial service will be held on April 18 at 11a.m. at Brookdale Towers, 101 Upper Broadway, Corpus Christi, TX - a place that meant so much to him and to so many others.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Texas Baptist Camp Endowment, a fund pioneered by Red in 1997.

Donate to one of Reds favorite charities- HighGround Advisors Memory of Red Colquitt – 30007223 PO Box 840350 Dallas, TX 75284