David Ray Kirkland of Pine Bluff, Arkansas was born September 6, 1951 in Amarillo, Texas the son of the late Thomas Kenneth and Maudie B. Bowden Kirkland. He was a 1969 graduate of Huntsville High School, had served in the United State Air Force and had retired from the Pine Bluff Arsenal. He was a member of National Rifle Association and a proud supporter of the POW. He enjoyed playing cards, going to the casino, yard work and gardening.

Mr. Kirkland died at St. Vincent' s North Medical Center in Sherwood on April 29, 2025 at the age of 73.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Carolyn Burris.

Survivors: daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Gary Sheridan of Grapevine; brother, Tommy Kirkland of California; sister–in-law and caregiver, Tonya Wright; ex-wife and caregiver, Cheryl Kirkland; 2 grandchildren, Ashley Mathis (Taylor), Sarah Crowder (Alec); 3 grandchildren, Carter Mathis, Harvey Mathis and Collins Crowder and a host of friends.

The family will have a graveside at a later date.