Mr. James Everret Kilburn, 76, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 4:38 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Allure of Lake Storey, with his loved ones by his side.
James was born on June 27, 1949, in Avon, Illinois, the son of Wayne E. and Bertha Marie (Clifford) Kilburn. He graduated from Avon High School in 1967 and later served his country in the United States Army from 1970 to 1972. He was stationed in Germany and held the rank of E-4. Following his military service, James worked for Parkins Trucking, LLC in Roseville, Illinois, in construction and truck driving. He retired in 2012.
Surviving is his beloved daughter, Cari Ann Sundell of Delavan, Illinois; two brothers, Wayne (Linda) Kilburn of Greenbush, Illinois, and Rex (Rhonda) Kilburn of St. Augustine, Illinois; three sisters, Roberta (Wayne) Blansette of Sciota, Illinois, Rebecca Blevins of Abingdon, Illinois, and Robin (Sam) Sell of the Muscatine, Iowa area; and two grandchildren, Austin Sundell of San Diego, California, and Brett Sundell of East Peoria, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Elmer and George Kilburn.
James was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Cubs. He also enjoyed shooting pool in his free time.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services, Galesburg Chapel. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Babbitt Cemetery in St. Augustine, Illinois, with Chaplain Jordan Knight officiating. Military Rites will be conducted by the Knox County Honor Guard at 1:00 p.m.
Memorials in James’ honor may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation or the Type 1 Diabetes Foundation.
Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
