Jesse Lee

Kirkland

On December 19, 2025, Jesse Lee Kirkland, Sr. peacefully entered eternal rest at the age of 67, surrounded by his family. Jesse was a loving brother, father, grandfather, and uncle whose presence meant a great deal to those who knew him.

Jesse was born on September 30, 1958, in Toledo, Ohio, to Less Riley Kirkland and Lou Emma Taylor-Kirkland. He was the eldest and only son among six siblings. In 1976, after high school, Jesse proudly joined the United States Navy, serving with dedication and honor. Following his honorable discharge, he built a career in manufacturing.

In 1982, Jesse married Teresa McKinney, and together they welcomed Jesse Lee Kirkland, Jr. In 2008, he welcomed his second son, Caleb Ja'vone Kirkland, with Stacey Dukes.

Jesse took pride in having the youngest child while being the oldest sibling, a fact he joked about with his sisters.

Jesse settled in North Carolina, where he reaffirmed his faith through baptism at Gethsemane Baptist Church in

2011. Devoted to family and friends, he stayed connected through visits, phone calls, and family reunions—the puzzle piece that held everyone together.

Jesse found joy in football, basketball, travel, fishing, dominoes, cards, caring for his dogs Bullet and Juno, and

making his signature squash casserole. Jesse's unique laughter, memorable expressions, and storytelling will be

deeply missed. As we honor his legacy, we recall his well-known advice: "If you can't be good, then be good at it."

He was preceded in death by his sister Cheryl Kirkland-Paul and brother-in-law Derrick Wyse. He is survived by his sons, Jesse Kirkland, Jr. and Caleb Ja'vone Kirkland; grandchildren Em'Danea, Brielle, and Nova Kirkland;

sisters Carol Kirkland, Karen Kirkland-Wyse, Jackie Kirkland, and Brenda Kirkland-Waites (Paul); and many

nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.