Elbert Leon Kimbrough, age 87, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, surrounded by family.

Elbert’s greatest love and devotion were to his Creator and Heavenly Father, Jehovah. He often spoke fondly of how his grandfather took him to the Kingdom Hall as a child, planting seeds of faith that would shape his life. He was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1967 and remained steadfast in his dedication to Jehovah throughout his life.

For many decades, Elbert served faithfully as a congregation elder, shepherding and encouraging others with kindness and humility. He often served as conductor of the weekly congregation Watchtower Study, a role he cherished. Known for his upbuilding manner, calm presence, and steady faith, Elbert remained devoted in Jehovah’s service down to the very end, which he regarded as his greatest accomplishment.

While Elbert achieved a measure of recognition and success in the world of professional sports, he remained deeply humble. After dedicating his life to his Creator, Jehovah, he chose to avoid the limelight, preferring a quiet life centered on faith, service, and family. Spiritual pursuits mattered far more to him than personal recognition, and he was respected for his modesty and sincerity.

On August 23, 1959, Elbert married the love of his life and childhood sweetheart, Sherri Lynn Jackson. Together, they shared many adventures and built a marriage rooted in love, loyalty, and devotion. They celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2009 before her passing.

Those who knew Elbert remember him for his calm presence, generous spirit, and quiet acts of kindness. Although reflective by nature and serious in appearance, he had a warm sense of humor that quickly revealed itself once you got to know him. In his quieter moments, he enjoyed listening to music, writing, and following his favorite sports teams.

Born on March 24, 1938, in Galesburg, Illinois, Elbert grew up alongside his twin brother, Albert. The two were inseparable friends and gifted athletes. Over the years, Elbert made his home in Oakland and Fremont, California, as well as Paterson, New Jersey. Following his professional football career, he worked as a businessman, insurance agent, and entrepreneur. After retiring, he continued to give back by serving as a substitute teacher, patiently encouraging young minds.

Elbert was preceded in death by his parents, Gladys and Raymond Kimbrough; and his siblings, Nancy Kimbrough, Laura Ann (Kimbrough) Bryant, Lois Kimbrough, Raymond “John” Kimbrough, Jr., Kenneth Kimbrough, and his twin, Albert Kimbrough.

He is survived by his sister, Patricia (Michael) Coleman; his five children, Brant (Maudellyn) Kimbrough, Dee Dee Kimbrough, Channing Kimbrough, Whitney Kimbrough, and Amber Kimbrough (Robert Zaremba); eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Cremation will be directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, 1811 15th Street Place, Moline, IL.

Services will be held Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 201 N. Linwood Rd., Galesburg, IL 61401. 

Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences on his memory page at www.mvcremation.com.