She was the widow of Bill Slovak, a retired English Professor at Eastfield Community College and was a member of First United Methodist Church in Mt. Vernon, TX. She received a Doctorate degree in English at East Texas State University and even wrote some short stories. In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by one son, Vanoy Wilbanks; two granddaughters, Lisa Wilbanks and Traci Wilbanks Burris; three brothers, Donald Anderson, James Anderson and Lloyd Anderson; one sister, Lula Fay Shurbet; daughter-in-law, Joyce Ann Wilbanks.
Her philosophy of life was: If you desire to do something, go for it! She has never been a bashful person and this motto has worked for her. She always wished to be aware of other people's feeling, appreciating the good things in life, especially family, friends, and nature. She always would say we should enjoy life and all it has to offer: love and peace and happiness and that we should encourage others in their personal endeavors and always be kind.
Survivors include one son, Lavell Wilbanks of Monticello; one sister, Beth Wilhite of Mt. Pleasant, TX; one brother, Charles "Choc" Anderson (Margie) of Abilene, TX; three grandchildren, Tiger Wilbanks (Dianne) of Conway, Tonya Gavin (Ray) of Woodlawn and Chris Wilbanks (Johnnie) of Rogers; two daughters-in-law, Carolyn Carter of Rock Springs and Gloria Wilbanks of Monticello; twelve great-grandchildren and four great-great -grandchildren.
Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 31, 2020 at Cooper's Chapel Cemetery in Mt. Pleasant, TX. Online guestbook at www.stephensondearman.
Condolences(6)
Clyde Ray Amos
Cookville, TX Friday, January 31, 2020 Sorry for your loss.Brenda Gardner Lipton
, AR Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Ms. Polly was a joy to know when she was one of our Grand Manor family. I was privileged to interview her when her life story was presented as Resident of the Month. She was a special lady.Robbin Curry
Rison, AR Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Tonya, so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family.Susan McClain Musick
Monticello, AR Tuesday, January 28, 2020 Condolences to the family of Mrs. Polly. When she came back to Drew County, she wanted to start a book club. Some of us from First Methodist joined her in starting this club. Even in her 90's she was able to take many notes and discuss the books in detail. We continue to meet every second Monday at the Methodist church. Heaven has gained an angel!Janice Gladden Wiggam
Hot Springs Village, AR Tuesday, January 28, 2020 I am sorry to read about Pauline. I knew her while in college and a very sweet lady. My prayers are with you all. May God give you comfort in your sorrow.Carole (Johns) Rushing
Woodlawn, AR Tuesday, January 28, 2020 Lavell and all the family, I am so sorry to read of Pauline's passing. We worked together for years at DuraCraft Boats. Bill and I ate a lot of dry beans and cornbread at her kitchen table. Things have certainly changed a lot since those days. I wish I had known she was back in Monticello. I would have loved to have visited with her. I always thought she was the greatest person. Even though there was lots of age difference , you would never have known it. We had such great times together. I share your sorrow with you and you will be in my prayers. May the Lord bless you with peace, comfort and strength to get you through the sad days ahead.Carole (Johns) Rushing