Longtime Grapevine councilman found dead

Councilman C. Shane Wilbanks was found dead at home Friday.

Wilbanks, 73, died of natural causes in his sleep Friday morning, the Tarrant County medical examiner’s website reported.

Wilbanks began serving on the City Council in 1985. He was most recently re-elected in May to a term that ends in 2018. Wilbanks was part of the city’s leadership for much of its growth.

“The Botanical Gardens at Heritage Park, our trails system and City parks have all been touched by the vision and talents of Mayor Pro Tem Wilbanks,” the city said in an announcement of his death on its website.

Carl Shane Wilbanks moved to Grapevine in 1965. He was married to Paula Wilbanks, and the couple has three grown children, who all attended Grapevine-Colleyville schools.

RaDonna Hessel, Grapevine Chamber of Commerce CEO, sent an email regarding Wilbanks’ death to chamber members.

“At this time, please keep his lovely wife of 51 years, Paula, and their children in your thoughts and prayers, as well as our entire city council, management and staff as they grieve for a wonderful friend to our community,” the email read. “Shane loved Grapevine and served our community for many years.”

In addition to his work as a public servant, Wilbanks was a member of the Grapevine Rotary Club and sat on the board of the Grapevine Baylor Scott & White Hospital, the Grapevine Chamber of Commerce and First Presbyterian Church.

This story was originally published August 22, 2015 at 4:18 PM with the headline "Longtime Grapevine councilman found dead."