Norman Kirkwood

Norman Lee Kirkwood of Simpsonville, SC passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

Norman was born in New Castle, PA on December 14, 1936, and was the only son of the late Wallace Kirkwood and the late Helen Kite Kirkwood.

After high school, Norman joined the U.S. Navy. He thoroughly enjoyed his military time and had hoped to make an extensive career serving his country. Instead, he returned home and began working with Delta Airlines. Norman had always been fascinated by planes and eagerly began a lengthy career with Delta. He retired as the head of the freight transportation department.

Norm was a very structured and disciplined man, but he also liked to joke around and was quick to laugh. He was a planner, and lived by a budget. Several years ago he typed up a set of instructions that he titled, "What To Do When I Die." (He wanted things to be as easy as possible for his wife) He was a hard worker both in his career, and at the house. He would maintain the house, repair his own vehicles, and even built a garage. He kept an optimistic outlook on life, and was an encouragement to those around him. While he did not have a college education, he insisted on one for each of his kids, and financially provided for the cost. He was completely devoted to his wife, children and Savior. His grandkids were a great source of joy to him, and he had a special relationship with each one.

Norman leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Janet Elaine Kirkwood; son, Norman E. Kirkwood; daughters, Kristi J. Whitford (Dan) and Leslie D. Borton (Carter); eleven grandchildren, Zachary D. Kirkwood, Abigail J. Rogers, Annsley G. Kirkwood, Caden M. Whitford, Sloane A. Whitford, Carson R. Whitford, Tally E. Whitford, Bethany B. Hastings, Carter M. Borton, Levi M. Borton and Emma Rose Borton; great grandchildren, Adeline, Ruby Jane, Rawlings, Cooper and great grandchild expected June 2026; and sister, Betty Barrickman.

In addition to his parents, Norman was predeceased by a sister, Barbara Summerville.

The family will gather at the McDougald Funeral Home on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm with family and friends to reflect on the wonderful life of Norman Kirkwood. At a later date, he will be buried privately at M.J. Dolly Cooper Veteran's Cemetery with military honors.

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