Ryan Kirkley

Ryan was truly one of a kind, such a beautiful soul with a genuine, sweet, and innocent heart. Her love for her family knew no bounds. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: swimming, exploring new places, sightseeing, vacationing, and cheering on her children in their sports. She was a dedicated, hardworking, and loyal mother who dreamed of her boys growing up to live their best lives and travel the world.

Ryan loved her family, her dogs, Alabama football, and an ice-cold Coca-Cola. She graduated from Tuscaloosa County High School in 2005 and made a lasting impact on everyone who had the blessing to know her. Those who met Ryan can truly say they encountered a real-life angel.

She is survived by her beloved sons: Jacob Ryan Deese, Parker Leon Deese, and Karter Kirian Deese; her partner in life, David Kirian Heath Deese; her mother, Mary Lynn Kendrick (Larry Maddox); and her father, Mark Owen Kirkley. She is also survived by her uncles: Kevin Garrett Kendrick, Laddie Kendrick (Debbie), Jeff Kirkley (Cindy), and Joe Kirkley Jr.; her aunt: Cindy (Tim); and her cousins: Guin Kendrick, Seth Kendrick, April Tarr (Garrett), Keith Kirkley, and Lavren Kirkley.

Ryan is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Barbara Lynn Garret Kendrick and Lushen Kendrick; her paternal grandparents, Louise Fowler Kirkley and Joseph Lee Kirkley Sr.; and David Leon Deese Jr., father of Kirian.

A Celebration of Life for Ryan will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Buddy Powell Pavilion, 4205 Northridge Rd., Tuscaloosa, AL., 35406.