Herbert Lee Kirkland

Kirk was born in Chiefland, Florida, a fourth generation Floridian, August 10, 1926. Kirk grew up on a farm with his three brothers and two sisters until he was thirteen. Tragically, his parents were killed in an automobile accident and his life took a completely different direction. Kirk lived with his grandmother in Cedar Keys and became an entrepreneur on the city docks, organizing a group of teenage boys to work the nets from the fishing fleet. His attitude of self-reliance and careful management of his assets started here. Kirk moved to Jacksonville to live with his older brother Royce and his wife Lucille, and three of his younger siblings. The stars were finally aligned when he met the love of his life, Gracie Herrington. Their love affair and devotion to each other of almost seventy-five years, has been admired throughout their marriage.

Kirk received an honorable discharge form the United States Navy and was a member of the “Greatest Generation”, serving in Guam during WWII. In 2018 he was a guest member of the 2018 Honor Flight as a WWII Service Veteran, and flew to Washington, DC, where he was greeted by Senator Bob Dole. After 2018 Kirk became involved with the local V.A. and became a life member of the Baker County Veterans Council.

Kirk’s occupations included working for the railroad and the City of Jacksonville, where he was president of his local union. He had a great passion for story-telling, hunting with his brothers, sports and camping all over the U.S. Kirk was a great fan of the Florida Gators football. He spent many months enjoying his mountain home in Black Mountain, NC with his family and friends. Kirk was like by all, loved by his family and treasured as our “Uncle Kirkie”.

Kirk is predeceased by his Father William Guy Kirkland and Mother Louise Barrow Kirkland; three brothers Marion Kirkland, Royce Kirkland and Bill Kirkland; and one sister Rita Kirkland.

He is survived by his beloved wife Gracie Herrington Kirkland; devoted daughter Pamela Ann Kirkland; son Michael Kirkland (Sheri); sister Margaret Kirkland Sneed; and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

We would like to extend a special thank you to Dan Schilling, who helped with Kirk so much.

Kirk is loved and adored by his family and his smile, laughter and warmth is a gift he has left with us all.

Memorial contributions can be donated in honor of Kirk to: K-9 for Warriors, PO Box 865431 Orlando, FL 32886-5431.