Ferrell Wayne Kirkland

Every good life leaves footprints. Ferrell Wayne Kirkland, Sr. left his in the fields he farmed, the woods he hunted, the waters he fished, and, most importantly, in the hearts of the family and friends who knew him. If you knew Ferrell, you probably remember seeing him with a thermos of hot coffee in hand. Whether he was headed to the farm, the woods, or simply down the road, that thermos was never far from his side.

Ferrell was born on January 7, 1951, in Chattahoochee, Florida, to Hinton and Ruby Kirkland. His earthly journey came to a peaceful close on July 16, 2026, at the age of 75.

As a young man, Ferrell answered his country’s call and was drafted into the United States Navy. After his discharge, he returned home to Grand Ridge, Florida, where he embraced the life he loved: farming the land, working with his hands, and building a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.

To know Ferrell was to know a man who felt most at home outdoors. Whether sitting in a deer stand, casting a line, or sharing stories, he found peace in God’s creation. He was an excellent marksman whose patience and steady hand earned the respect of many. Yet the greatest aim of his life was always to live faithfully, guided by his unwavering belief in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ferrell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Hinson Kirkland, whom he married on January 5, 1972. Though separated for a time, there is comfort in knowing they are together again.

He is also preceded in death by his parents, Hinton and Ruby Kirkland, and his stepson, Tony Hinson.

He leaves behind a family that will continue to carry his legacy with pride: his son, Ferrell Wayne Kirkland, Jr.; his stepdaughters, Tammy Davis (Scott) and Allison Molsbee; his grandchildren, Michael Goodin (Jill), T.J. Goodin, Kayla Rudd, Ashley Miller (Royce), Anthony Powell, Katy Ellis (Kevin), Mindy Kervin (Zach), and Haley Davis; 25 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Penny, Violet, Ginger, and Wanda, and his brother, Farris, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who were blessed to know him.

Ferrell’s story was never about seeking recognition. It was about living with integrity, honoring his commitments, and trusting God through every season of life. His legacy is found not only in the family he leaves behind, but also in the values he quietly passed on: faith, perseverance, and a love for the simple gifts of God’s creation.

Though his chair may now sit empty and his footsteps have faded from the fields and woods he loved, the memories he created will continue to echo through every hunting season, every fishing trip, every family gathering, and every life he touched.

His work is complete, and he has been welcomed home into the presence of his Savior. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Funeral services will be 11 AM on Monday, July 20, 2026, at James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel with Ed Mathis officiating. Burial will follow in Carpenter Cemetery with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing. Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Goodin, TJ Goodin, Caden Goodin, Gavin Goodin, Anthony Powell, Brad Hamilton, and Matt Bishop.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel.