Fred Kirkland

A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 2, 2023, from First Methodist Church of Philadelphia with Rev. Tommy Jennings officiating.  McClain-Hays Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. 

Robert “Fred” Kirkland, age 81, died on Friday, March 31, 2023, at Neshoba General Hospital in Philadelphia, Mississippi.

He lived in Philadelphia at the time of his death.

Fred was born in Philadelphia on July 25, 1941 to Lee and Lexie (Clark) Kirkland.  Before earning a master’s degree from Mississippi State University, “Nub” played football at Philadelphia High School and East Central Junior College. His coaching career began in Florida before returning to Mississippi to enjoy High School Coaching at Kosciusko, Choctaw Central, West Jones and Neshoba Central, where he also was a longtime Drivers Ed Teacher. Also known by some as “Coach K,” he loved taking care of stray / rescue dogs. He was a life-long fan of Bulldog football. One of Fred’s favorite pastimes was staying in touch with his teammates and coaches from all locations.

He also served over 20 years in the Mississippi Army National Guard with some of that time as a Recruiter.

Fred was preceded in death by his wife, Tommie Lynn (Richardson) Kirkland; his parents, Lee and Lexie (Clark) Kirkland; and his siblings, Juanice Kirkland Hardy, Bernice Kirkland, and Wayne Kirkland.

Survivors include his sister, Nancy Kirkland Hardy (Allen); and several nieces and nephews and their families.

The family requests that memorials be directed to Polly’s Paws at 10500 Road 646, Philadelphia, MS, 39350.