Jerald Lee Kirkland

Jerald Lee Kirkland, a devoted family man and skilled craftsman, passed away on December 24, 2024, in Copan, Oklahoma surrounded by his family at the age of 81. Born on September 11, 1943, in Rural Edna, Kansas to Renzo Lee and Jessie Lucille (Kimrey) Kirkland, Jerald was a man of many talents and an unwavering spirit.

Shortly after marrying his beloved wife Beverly A. (Brown) Kirkland on September 19, 1964 in Dearing, Kansas at the Dearing Christian Church the couple moved to Bartlesville where, Jerald embarked on a remarkable 38-year journey with Phillips Petroleum. Over these decades, he honed his expertise and built strong friendships with coworkers, while culminating his career as an Electrical Production Engineer. His steadfast commitment to his work was testament to a strong work ethic that he carried throughout his life.

Jerald was more than an engineer; he was a craftsman at heart. Known for his love of woodworking, he spent many hours in his workshop, where he could be found whittling on wood or skillfully cutting a piece of wood to create beautiful wooden pieces. He wasn't an expert blacksmith but he sure enjoyed forging metals and taught his grandson to do the same. Jerald was a bit accident prone and over the years his hobbies and saws cost him a few of his digits but it didn't stop him.  Additional hobbies extended to gardening, fishing, and camping, where he enjoyed the great outdoors. Those who knew him were often reminded of his playful spirit, as practical jokes were his calling card, and he carried a kid-like energy that brightened the lives of those around him.

While he had a knack for finding mischief—in particular, the occasional mishap with his saw that left him with stories to tell—his love for life remained vibrant. He was actively involved with the Boys Scouts when his sons were younger, imparting valuable lessons and his love for nature to the next generation.

Jerald and Beverly were members of the East Bartlesville Christian Church, life circumstances made attending more of a challenge but their dedication to serving their Lord and Savior were unwavering.. 

Jerald, started his early days of education at Starr School in rural Edna to completing his secondary education at Labette County High School in Altamont, Kansas. He furthered his academic journey with an associate degree from Coffeyville Community Junior College, laying the foundation for a successful career.

Jerald's greatest pride stemmed from his unwavering dedication to both the Lord and his family. His legacy carries on through his loving wife Beverly, his sons Gregory Wayne Kirkland and Keith Leon Kirkland and wife Rea, and a host of grandchildren: Samantha Kirkland, Donja Kirkland, Felicia Kirkland, Autumn Hawk and husband Karl, Richard Kirkland, Bettina Kirkland, Samuel Kirkland, Breanna Warfield and husband Bryce, Alex Johnson, and Kelsey Deitrick and husband John, fourteen great grandchildren and two more on the way. He is also survived by his brother Karl Kirkland and wife Gay.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Renzo Lee and Jessie Lucille (Kimrey) Kirkland, who will be welcoming him home.

A visitation for friends and family will be held on December 31, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave. in Coffeyville, Kansas, followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM . A graveside service will take place afterward at Lake Creek Cemetery in Bartlett, Kansas. To leave a message of condolence or share a memory visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com