Rufus "Joel" Wilmoth

In Loving Memory of Rufus “Joel” Wilmoth

January 2, 1948 – August 26, 2026

Rufus “Joel” Wilmoth, 78, passed away peacefully at home on August 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Born January 2, 1948, in Moss, Tennessee, Joel was the son of the late Lonzo Wilmoth and Mary Ethel Dodson.

On July 15, 1972, Joel married the love of his life, Dene Wilmoth. Together they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered around love, laughter, and family.

Joel was a lifelong union ironworker and a hardworking man who would help anyone in need. He never met a stranger, always had a smile on his face, and could make just about anyone laugh.

He was the loving father of Steven Bradley; Pamela Hedges (Bill); Darla Sexton (Mark); and the late Rodney Wilmoth and Angie Wilmoth.

He was the beloved Pepa of Lisa Stafford and the late Bryan Burris. His great-grandchildren Samantha Stafford, Jordan Stafford, Jaden Stafford, James Williams, Chelsea Sams, Aydrea Burris, and Kyston “Lil B” Burris, and great-great-grandchildren Mina Sams and Aria Vega.

Joel is also survived by his siblings Brenda Groff (Bill), Euel Wilmoth (Joyce), Dellon Wilmoth (Cheryl), and Daisy Troxell. He was preceded in death by his siblings Delmon Wilmoth, Alonzo Wilmoth, Johnny Wilmoth, Dumas Wilmoth, Devena Cross, and Betty Payne. He also leaves behind 32 nieces and nephews and many extended family members and friends.

One of the greatest comforts for his family is knowing that Joel has been reunited with those he loved. While their family would give anything to have here, there is comfort in imagining Bryan waiting with open arms to welcome his Pepa home.

Together again—no more goodbyes, no more missing one another.

Joel was also reunited with his children, Rodney and Angie, and the loved ones who went before him.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 12:00–2:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan -Washington Park East 10722 E. Washington Street Indianapolis, Indiana 46229. Pastor Don Sanders presiding. Joel was an amazing husband, Pa, Pepa, brother, uncle, and friend whose laughter and love will live on through his family forever.

Until we meet again, Joel—give Bryan a hug from all of us.