Thomas (Tommy) Ellijay Kirkland, Jr., age 57, passed away on Wednesday, September 8, 2021, in Denver, Colorado. Tommy was born on April 16, 1964, in Statesboro, GA, to Thomas E. and Gail Still Kirkland.
Tommy graduated from Coffee High School in 1982. He enlisted in the United States Navy as an advanced electronics specialist and served the nation around the world aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Dewey before honorable discharge as a Petty Officer Second Class in 1988.
Tommy transitioned from the Navy to a career in telecommunications providing global services in locations including China, Israel, Africa, Thailand and the Ukraine. He eventually settled back in Douglas, GA and earned his commercial driver’s license and was driving for R.E. Garrison Trucking at the time of his passing.
Survivors include a daughter, Catherine A. Kirkland, Lakeland, FL, and a son, Thomas E. Kirkland III, Tallahassee, FL; parents, Thomas and Gail Kirkland of Douglas, GA; two sisters, Lori O’Neal (husband, Danny) of Douglas, GA, and Holly Hoch (husband, Tim) of Charlotte, NC; 5 nephews, 3 nieces, and many cousins and friends.
The family will receive friends Saturday, September 25, 2021, at 10:00 AM, prior to the Memorial Service, which is schedule for 11:00 AM at Sims Funeral Home in Douglas, GA, with Pastor Gregory Pope, Covenant Christian Church, officiating.
Interment will follow at the Douglas City Cemetery.
Sims Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.