A Community in Mourning: How Odell, Illinois is Honoring Alex Paulsen Bullard After His Fatal Accident

In this article, Alex Paulsen Bullard, 27, a beloved member of Odell community and passionate and successful cattle breeder managed Bullard Cattle Company with his family sadly passed away after an unexpected car accident near Cornell Illinois on June 10, 2021. This tragic loss has left a profound void in many hearts who knew and loved him.

A Life of Love and Service

Bullard was born October 10, 1993 in Streator, Illinois to Paul and Sharlene (Paulsen) Bullard. He attended Flanagan-Cornell High School before playing baseball collegiately for Illinois State University where he received a Bachelor’s of Agriculture Business.

Bullard married Kellie Pilalis on June 22, 2018 in Princeton, Illinois. Afterward, they settled in Odell where they welcomed Halle in 2019 and Krew in 2021. Bullard was an attentive and loving father who taught his children all about farming and cattle while remaining faithful and supportive husband to Kellie Pilalis throughout their relationship.

Bullard Cattle Company was run with great dedication by Hardworking Farmer Brian Bullard who eventually took on leadership and management of it after graduation. From breeding to marketing, he was involved with every aspect of business at Bullard Cattle. Brian had an affinity for Simmentals and Charolais breeds which made him active within the cattle industry – winning awards and recognition among his peers and customers alike.

Alex Paulsen Bullard was also an outstanding coach who selflessly gave of himself to mentor young athletes in the area. He served as baseball and basketball coach at Odell Grade School, acting as an influential mentor who taught players not only fundamentals of their respective games but also values such as teamwork, sportsmanship and perseverance.

A Legacy of Hope and Inspiration

Bullard’s death has deeply grieved both Odell’s community, as well as wider agricultural and sporting circles. He was an amazing young man with so much to give; his kindness, enthusiasm, and humor touched so many lives and brought so much happiness and inspiration into their lives. Friends came flocking together around him; leaders found strength and faith. He will always remain dearly missed.

To remember his memory and legacy, the community has organized various events and initiatives in his honor. A funeral service was held June 15, 2021 at Christ Community Church in Gridley, Illinois where hundreds gathered to pay their respects and share stories. A memorial fund has also been established at Flanagan State Bank where donations can be made directly to help his wife and children. Lastly, on July 10, 2021 at Odell Grade School teams from different schools will compete to raise money for his family.

Bullard’s family and friends have expressed their thanks and appreciation for all the outpouring of love and support from within and outside their community. They ask people to remember him for his smile, laughter, passion and love as they live each day with purpose, gratitude, and faith – as his wife Kellie wrote on Facebook post, Alex taught them all “how to live and love. We will always love you Alex”.