LaRue Ann (Cooper) Kilbourn

LaRue Ann (Cooper) Kilbourn, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on April 16, 2026, at Sun Valley Rehabilitation Center in Harlingen, Texas. She was born August 6, 1940, in Vernon, Texas, to Roy Cooper and Joy Livingston Cooper. LaRue moved to Harlingen with her family during her middle school years, where she met and later married Charles M. Kilbourn on August 16, 1957. Together, they shared more than sixty years of marriage until Charles’ passing in 2018.

LaRue was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Charles, her son Charles (Chuck) M. Kilbourn, Jr. and her sister Charlene Trousdale. She is survived by her son Royce Kilbourn (Karl Staatz), daughter-in-law Kimberly Kilbourn, grandchildren Kali Withers (Ian) and their children Vivian and Madeleine, Cashay Anderson (Sam) and their children Abigail and Thomas, and Charles M. Kilbourn III.

LaRue is survived by numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, including her cousin and close friend Barbara Lucas, and will be fondly remembered by her many friends, including her long-time Thursday card group and her friends at Valley View Independent Living.

A lifelong crafter, over the years LaRue found joy in ceramics, embroidery, quilting, and most recently, creating paper bead jewelry. She was renowned for her delicious cooking and frequently hosted memorable holiday dinners for family and friends. Above all, LaRue will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, radiant smile, and her unforgettable, room-filling laugh.

The family will have a private burial. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 9th from 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm at Colletti’s restaurant in Harlingen. Friends and family are encouraged to stop in, share memories, and celebrate LaRue and all she meant to us.