Mr. Willis L. Kirkland

Ward Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory

Viewed: 1237

Posted by: Ward Wilson
Date: Sep 01 2024 9:50 AM

Willis Lindbird Kirkland, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024, at the age of 85, just two days after his beloved wife of 61 years, Bobbie, departed this world. Born on October 6, 1938, Willis’s life was marked by his unwavering kindness, generosity, and creative spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

Willis was a man of many talents and interests. After honorably serving in the United States Navy, he built a successful career as a retired aircraft mechanic, a profession that showcased his remarkable ability to fix anything that was broken. His hands were skilled, and his mind was sharp, traits that served him well both in his work and hobbies. Willis was also a proud Master Mason at Lodge #466 and a respected Scottish Rite 32nd Degree Mason, dedicating many years to the brotherhood and its values.

Beyond his professional and fraternal commitments, Willis found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid fisherman, often found casting a line in the tranquility of nature. His love for the outdoors extended to travelling to the mountains, enjoying camping trips with his family. Willis’s vibrant social life was filled with racing go-carts, hosting fish frys, playing horseshoes, golfing, and riding motorcycles, especially memorable rides with his daughter. His passion for cars was evident to all who engaged him in conversation about his latest project or favorite model.

Family was the cornerstone of Willis’s life. He is survived by his loving son, Keith Kirkland; his daughter, Kaye Crawford, and her husband, Mike; his granddaughter, Brantley Bruner, and her husband, Clint; his grandsons, Chaz Crawford and Matt Martin, and his wife, Heather; and he was anticipating the arrival of his great-grandchild, Baby Bruner. Willis also leaves behind his sisters, Janice Young, Lola Dykes, and Deborah Racine. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Kirkland and Beulah Harper Kirkland, and his siblings, Ted Kirkland, June Farmer, Eloise Woodham, James Kirkland, Louise Kirkland, Langham Kirkland, and Barbara Brannon.

Willis’s legacy is one of love and craftsmanship. He had a unique ability to build things with his hands, creating lasting memories and tangible tokens of his affection for his family and friends. His grandchildren, in particular, will remember the joy of building and fixing things alongside their grandfather, a man who believed in the power of hard work and the importance of leaving things better than he found them. Those who knew Willis will remember him as a man who lived his life with a generous heart. He was always ready to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement.

Funeral services for Willis, alongside his wife Bobbie, will be held at 1 PM, Monday, September 2, 2024 at Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Reverend Doug Seale officiating. The family will receive friends from 12 PM until 1 PM, prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Southern Care Hospice, 2576 Montgomery Highway #2 Dothan, AL  36303.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the caregivers, Shannon Welch, Morgan Matthews, Brianna Andrews, and Cassie White who took such excellent care of Willis.

 

 

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