Obituary of Jimmy D. Kirkland

Jimmy D. Kirkland, age 91, of Joliet, passed away peacefully, Monday, October 20, 2025 at his home with his loving family by his side. He was born January 7, 1934, in Carbon Hill, AL, the son of the late John Wendall and Ozzie (nee Benton) Kirkland.

Jimmy retired from General Motors after 33 years of dedicated service where he worked as a Millwright.  He served on the Board of Trustees for 22 years at the Southeast Joliet Saniatary District. Jimmy loved his tools and could fix just about anything. He enjoyed going to garage sales and finding hidden treasures. Above all, he loved his kids and grandkids, who were his greatest pride and joy.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Penny; children, Kim Kirkland, and Mark( Karin) Kirkland; grandchildren, Brett Kirkland, Megan Kirkland, Bradley Burditt, and Breanna Burditt; and brother, Jack (Faye) Kirkland.

He was preceded in death by his loving first wife, Margaret Kirkland; grandson, Cody Graves; brother, Joe Kirkland; and sister, Joyce Earley.

The family would like to thank Family Centered Hospice for their amazing care and support, especially Victoria and Raven.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Interment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. with full military honors held under the auspices of the United States Army and the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Memorial Squad.

For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.comwhere you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.