Carl E Kirkland

Romans 8:38-39

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God

Rest in Peace Father

Early Life

Carl Edward Kirkland was born on March 27, 1937, in Pulaski, Georgia, to Grady Kirkland and Sadie (Barwick) Kirkland. He spent his childhood in Metter, Georgia, where he grew up with his family before eventually moving to New Jersey.

Adult Life and Career

After relocating to New Jersey, Carl made Somerset his home. He worked for General Motors at the Hyatt Clark plant, later concluding his career with Franklin Township Board of Education. Carl was a founding member and multi-term president of the Ten’s Enough social club.

Community Involvement and Personal Interests

Carl was always willing to lend a hand to friends in need. During the holidays, he was a familiar presence at the Ten’s Enough social club, where he generously fried hundreds of turkeys for the community. Carl was an avid hunter and fisherman, and he took pride in breeding and raising Beagle hounds. Known by his club nickname “Jetter,” he also enjoyed a game of chance with friends and family.

Family and Legacy

Carl was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers—Buel Kirkland, Lane Ried, and Grady Boswell—and one sister, Stacy Ried, all of New Jersey. He is survived by his life partner, Marry Bullard North Carolina; his two sons, Carl Balaam of North Brunswick, NJ, and Kenneth Smith, Daughter-in-law Sybie Smith of Tampa, Florida; 7 grandchildren—Hasheema Gamble, Sadaqah Balaam, Kenneth Kirkland Jr; Shanice; Sena; Melina; Melissa all of Tampa Florida. 6 great-grandchildren—Amaria; Jamir; Amaris; Alani; Amelia; and Jesson Jr. of Tampa Florida; four nephews—Buel Kirkland, Craig Kirkland, Darrin Williams, and Sidney Williams; and hundreds of first cousins from the Georgia (Kirkland) Montgomery Klan of Somerset and Georgia.

Passing

Carl departed this life 6:31 A.M. On December 20, 2025, at JFK University Medical Center in Edison, New Jersey, at the age of 88. He is fondly remembered by his family, friends, and the community for his generosity, leadership, and lively spirit.

In Remembrance

‘The Great Georgia pine has fallen!’

Be encouraged by our father’s passing and legacy. Instead of crying, live and inspired, spiritual and happy life like he did when he was here. Live each day with encouragement knowing that he is proud and smiling down from Heaven.              The family

Acknowledgement

The Kirkland family sincerely appreciates all the loving comfort and sympathy extended to us during these difficult times. May the peace of God be with you all!