Holly MatkinPocahontas, AR – Randolph County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) Deputy Wilburn “Willie” Dean Kimble died on Sept. 4 after a battle against cancer.
He was surrounded by his loved ones when he passed away at his home, according to his obituary.
Randolph County Sheriff Kevin Bell announced the 60-year-old deputy’s death in a Facebook post later that day.
“Deputy Willie Kimble 1962-2022 is hands down one of the bravest and most dedicated law officers I’ve ever met,” Sheriff Bell wrote. “Today we have lost a true American hero after his long hard fought battle with cancer.”
Deputy Kimble served his department for 38 years, according to his obituary.
“He had the biggest heart and loved helping people,” the tribute read. “He was the strongest man most have ever met.”
In addition to his role with the sheriff’s office, Deputy Kimble also spent time working for Randolph County District Court Probation and briefly served as a deputy sheriff in Clay County.
He was named the RCSO’s Deputy of the Year in 2020.
“Willie served Randolph County for over 30 years, retired and came back to work,” Sheriff Bell said. “Despite his health issue he continued to work hard until just a few months ago.”
“Most importantly Willie was my brother in Christ and I’m thankful for that,” the sheriff added. “Rest In Peace my brother sheepdog, we will take the watch from here!”
Deputy Kimble leaves behind his significant other, Corinne, as well as his children, Logan, Jacob, Kaylon, Tyler, Dakota, Breanna, and Bianca, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his nine grandchildren, as well as his siblings, friends, extended family members, and his fellow law enforcement officers.
Deputy Kimble was laid to rest on Sept. 8.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Wilburn “Willie” Dean Kimble, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
