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Eddie McNeill suddenly dies at age 69

CAMPOBELLO—Town of Campobello, S.C. Fire Chief Eddie McNeill died suddenly last Thursday night. 

The town announced McNeill’s passing last week. He was 69 years old. 

McNeill served with the Campobello Fire Department for 45 years, from 1976 until 2021. 

“It is with heavy hearts that the Town of Campobello and surrounding communities know of the passing of Fire Chief Eddie McNeill. He passed away the evening of March 4, 2021 due to medical complications at the age of 69,” said the town’s Facebook post. “He served on the Town of Campobello’s Fire Department from 1976-2021 culminating a distinguished career in serving his community of 45 years. Chief McNeill was a lynch pin in the community and to other local fire departments. He served his community relentlessly, always putting others first, helping others any way he could, and making sure everyone was welcomed to the Town of Campobello.

Chief McNeill will be missed and will always be remembered as having a huge heart for his community, a jovial personality, and a big smile every time he saw you. Please keep the McNeill family and the Town of Campobello in your thoughts and prayers.”

Campobello Mayor Philip Wilds said the community is grieving the loss of its fire chief and friend Eddie McNeill. 

“He was a beloved presence in this community and knew no strangers,” Wilds said. “When you met Eddie, you were always greeted with a smile and maybe a joke or two. He was a cherished, influential leader. His passing impacts this community and is felt with great sadness. Our prayers are with his family.” 

The town changed its Facebook photo to McNeill and closed town hall for the day to honor the chief last week. 

Anyone who wants to bring flowers, leave a note or share a photo is asked to place them around the Campobello Fire Department sign or flagpole. The Campobello Fire Department is located at 50 Broad St., Campobello, S.C.