Robert Bryan Ellis was born on December 15, 1960, in Pawnee, Oklahoma, to Robert “Bob” and Ruth Ann Ellis. Bryan was the oldest of four children, and his sister remembers Bryan as being the best storyteller, often laughing too hard at his own story to finish the punchline. He was also known for making the rules for games they played, regularly changing the rules for whatever he needed to pull things in his favor. That worked well until everyone got older and figured out his shenanigans.

Bryan, also known as RB within the fire service, joined the Tulsa Fire Department in 1988. In 2016, he took the title of Chief of Health and Safety. A friend once said RB attained the title of Legend in the fire service by learning from the elite. RB traveled the U.S., learning directly from those individuals who were considered the masters of the craft in fire rescue. Whether RB was telling a joke or teaching, people gathered around to soak it up. RB often had a piece of rope at training and meetings, showing off his rope tying skills and teaching others how to tie a certain knot.

One of the most impactful accomplishments for RB was the desire to develop OKTF-1, Oklahoma’s Urban Search and Rescue Task Force, that shaped countless lives and inspired others. He was instrumental in helping colleagues organize special assistance for local jurisdictions for the Oklahoma Disaster Task Force, made up mostly by local emergency management agencies throughout Oklahoma. His larger-than-life presence, unwavering passion for rescue programs, and unforgettable spirit will forever leave an indelible mark.

RB had an affinity for anything outdoors—hunting, fishing, rafting, camping, and fishing some more. He always looked forward to his next outdoor adventure, such as running with the bulls in Spain and reeling in a 103-pound tuna. He knew that with proper planning and preparation, anything was possible. In doing so, he lived life to the absolute maximum. RB was also a pillar for Cavetime, participating in outdoor adventures with Church 3434, and was given the title “Chief.”

RB leaves behind his loving wife of 20 years, Teresa; daughters, Lauren and Jennifer; sons, Robert Bryan II “Bobby” and Thomas Franklin; and grandchildren, Hailey, Dax, Neil, Davis, Cooper, and Ruston.

RB’s devotion to his family, his God, and his fire service was unquestionable. He spent every day working to serve, and it showed in his actions. Every person who knew RB would tell you they were better off for having the association with him and his “Giddy Up.”