Linda Kirkland Obituary

Linda Carol Cox Kirkland

October 8, 1945 - June 24, 2024

Lexington, South Carolina - Linda Carol Cox Kirkland, 78, of Lexington, South Carolina passed on Monday, June 24, 2024. Born on October 8, 1945 in Bennettsville, SC, she was the daughter of the late Henry Stokely & Mildred Hester Cox. Linda was married for 48 years to the father of her children, James Bratton Kirkland, Sr. of Swansea, South Carolina who predeceased her.

She is survived by her children: James Bratton "Jay" Kirkland, Jr. of Austin, TX, Linda Diane "Dee" Kirkland Franz (Leo) of Suwanee, GA, and Jason Bradley Kirkland (Alison) of Fayetteville, GA. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Addison Franz, Madeline Franz, Jadon Kirkland, Emma Kate Kirkland, Emelia Kirkland, Sofia Kirkland, and Bratton Kirkland.

"Grandma" was her favorite name, and she embraced it fully. She was the BEST. She made every grandchild feel special, from hiding secret Oreos to spoiling them with whatever they desired. Christmas was her favorite time of the year; she created a magical atmosphere with dream-like houses and trees personalized for each grandchild. To many, she was just like Santa Claus, always giving despite having little herself. She pursued higher education at South Carolina State when her children were young but chose to focus on family, epitomizing the theme of her selfless life.

Linda dedicated 38 years of service to Lexington School District Four where many regarded her as a second mother. She was honored as the Transportation Employee of the Year, a testament to her commitment and love for the community. Lexington Four was truly her home away from home.

She was known for her selflessness, love, and caring nature. Her beautiful smile and willingness to help were well-known by all. "It's a small world" was not just her favorite ride at Walt Disney World but embodied how she made everyone in the world feel welcome in her family. She always thought of how she could make someone's life easier, often staying late to help and never leaving anyone alone. She regularly sent cards and gifts to let others know that she was thinking of them.

Linda's battle with pancreatic adenocarcinoma took a significant toll on her, limiting her usual activities in her final months. Despite this, she fought valiantly and very rarely complained. Even on her worst days, she remained hopeful, always saying that tomorrow would be better. Her perseverance and compassion for others endured, even in the face of terminal illness.

A memorial service for Linda will be held Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington Chapel, 503 North Lake Drive, Lexington, South Carolina 29072.