Kenneth Wayne Kirkland Sr.

July 29, 1962 – November 30, 2025 (63 years)

On Sunday, November 30, 2025, Ken Sr, lovingly referred to as "Papa Ken" by his grandkids, passed away at home, surrounded by family. His passing ended a four year on and off again battle with cancer and finally achieving the peace and comfort only Jesus can provide. He was a wonderful father, granddaddy, and friend, always ready to help others when needed. He departed this world deeply loved by all.

Born in Ohio on July 19, 1962, the first of three sons to Kenneth and Norma Kirkland. He grew up in Portage County, Ohio and later married and had two sons, Kenny Jr. and Jeffrey. The family moved to Morgan County, Alabama in 1989, where Ken resided his entire life.

A machinist for 42 years, Ken Sr. had the opportunity to meet many people and in his later years travel to consult on jobs, including to Canada and Mexico. When he wasn't working, Ken enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, playing guitar, reading, and was always down for sitting by a campfire. He loved Westerns and the peace of country living.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Jean Kirkland, Uncle Bob and Aunt Marie Johnson, and Aunt Dorothy and Uncle Bernie Dalton. He's survived by his father, Kenneth Kay Kirkland of Ohio, his sons, Kenneth W. Kirkland Jr. (wife Lesli and grandchildren Madelyn Laine and Liam James) of Decatur, Alabama, and Jeffrey Ryan Kirkland (wife Samantha and grandchildren Victoria Leigh-Anne and Taylor MacKenzie) of Hartselle, Alabama, Brother Kevin (wife Pam and daughter Ronnie Sue) Kirkland of Ohio, Brother Keith (wife Sara and daughter Genesis) of Alabama, Uncle Mike (wife Amy) Kirkland of Ohio, Aunt Faye Laney (children Chris and Billy) of Ohio, Uncle Eddie Johnson of Idaho, countless cousins and friends.

Honoring Ken Sr's wishes, there will be no visitation. The family is planning a celebration of life for a future date. In Lieu of Flowers, the Kenneth Wayne Kirkland Sr. Memorial Scholarship has been established at Calhoun College Foundation benefiting student scholarships for those wishing to express their sympathies. Donations may be made online to

http://weblink.donorperfect.com/KirklandSr

Or by check made payable to:

Calhoun College Foundation

P.O. Box 2216

Decatur, Alabama 35609-2216