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National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Roll of Honor

Chief
Year of Death: 1988

Wilburn R. Ellis

Wilburn was born December 7‚ 1917 in Mill Shoals Township Illinois and died July 1‚ 1988 in Belle Rive Illinois while fighting a brush fire caused by a sparking electrical line. He was survived by his wife Evelyn and two adult children.

Wilburn was a volunteer firefighter most of his adult life. Firefighting was his passion.

He was Fire Chief in Odin Illinois and was instrumental in establishing that fire district in 1953. Wilburn was also the Fire Chief of Belle Rive Fire Department until his death in 1988.

Wilburn was a good Christian man‚ a wonderful example to many‚ trustworthy‚ honest‚ and the best Dad ever.

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  1. What a wonderful man he was!!The most selfless person I’ve ever known.He taught me about Jesus and I am forever thankful.

    – Chrystal Ellis Donoho