Troy Weldon Kirkland

Born on August 14, 1943 to Vida Nichols Kirkland and Willie John Kirkland in Bessemer, AL; Troy began his law enforcement career at Bessemer Police Department, quickly achieving lieutenant status before serving as lieutenant and later receiving a promotion to Chief of Police in Montevallo. He served the people of Montevallo for many years, with younger brother, Mickey, by his side. He is probably best remembered by one entire Montevallo generation for Halloween shenanigans of water balloon battles and "desecration" of city police cars, using shaving cream. Troy was a fun-loving, seasoned prankster with a zest for life and love of laughter.

In his younger years, Troy was a avid horseman; competing statewide and beyond in the barrel racing and various other timed events, atop his beloved friend and companion, "Shoney," whom he continued to miss and grieve until his own death. He often spoke of dreams so vivid, he could "smell the sweat and leather." Together, Troy and Shoney earned countless blue ribbons and trophies. Now, they are joyfully reunited; and this is where the cowboy rides away...

Troy Kirkland is survived by his daughter, Catherine Kirkland Hall (Jeff); son, Pastor Russell W. Kirkland (Denise); grandchildren, Madison, Rylie and Tonia Burkeens; and Hannah Hall; Nicholas and Dusty Kirkland. He was fortunate to love and be loved by his great-grandchildren, Jack Brian Taylor; Zenovia Hall and newest addition, Serenity Watkins. His brother, Larry W. "Mickey" Kirkland (Mona), also survives him.

Troy is preceded in death by his "forever love" and wife of 58 years, Sylvia Ann Stone Kirkland; parents, Vida and W. J. Kirkland; sisters, W. Francis Hyche, Catherine Underwood, and Viola Kirkland Williamson; brothers, William "Buddy" Kirkland and Curtis A. "Bits" Kirkland. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved and valued him.

Many thanks to Rockco Funeral Home for their thoughtfulness in arrangements. There will be no funeral services, per Papa's request, as he often said he didn't want to be falsely glorified or portrayed. He was, by his own admission, a flawed and imperfect man; but to his daughter, he was Super Man.

Please remember Troy when riding through the streets of Montevallo or toast him at the Tavern.