Loyd Allen Kirkland, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many, departed from this world on September 24, 2024, in Dalhart, Texas, at the age of 77. Born on March 11, 1947, in Springfield, Colorado, Loyd grew to be a man of great heart and spirit, touching the lives of all those around him with his generosity and selflessness.

Loyd spent his formative years in the place of his birth before eventually laying down roots in Johnson, Kansas, where he proudly worked as a farmer for many years. His love for the land and his commitment to the nurturing of it were evident in both his professional life and his personal passions. He dedicated much of his time to vegetable gardening, landscaping, and caring for his dogs, finding joy and peace in the simplicity and beauty of nature.

The warmth of Loyd's personality was matched only by the vibrancy of his favorite color, bright orange, a hue that perfectly captured his lively and affectionate nature. He found solace in the melodies of old country and Christian music, and he delighted in the quiet moments spent watching Westerns. Loyd's collection of pigs, a quirky and endearing hobby, was a testament to his whimsical side and his appreciation for the small joys in life.

Loyd was a true pillar of his community, always ready to lend a hand or offer support to anyone in need. His open heart and readiness to help others made him an unforgettable presence in the lives of those he encountered. His actions spoke volumes of the high esteem in which he was held by his family and peers, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Family was the cornerstone of Loyd's life. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, James Kirkland and Betty Parks, his sons, James Allen Kirkland, and Nathan Eugene Kirkland; grandsons: Caleb and Ryan Kirkland. His legacy lives on through his daughters, Crystal (Scott) Scrivner of Purcell, Oklahoma, and Lorene (James) Hilts of Dalhart. He was a proud grandfather to Ashley (Reggie) Scheller, Austen, Tyler, Courtney, Shanna, Darla, Jeremiah, Elizabeth Kirkland, Josh and Nate Scrivner, Dakota (Ashley) Kirkland, Dezera LaFave, Josh, Chevi, and Cheyenne Hilts, and great-grandfather to Marshal, Luke, Jameson, Ariel, Allison, Dion, Ameriaha, and Gemma.

His brothers John and Jimmy Kirkland, and sister, Brenda Parks predeceased him, but he is remembered lovingly by his surviving brothers, Clay Parks, Ray Kirkland, Bobby Kirkland, his sisters, Pam Moore, and Cathy (Danny) Thomas, and his sister-in-law, Janet Kirkland, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss his guidance and affection.

Loyd's life was a testament to the enduring power of kindness and the profound impact a single individual can have on the lives of many. He walked through the world with an open heart, and it is with great sorrow and immense love that we bid farewell to a man of such admirable character.

Loyd's journey on earth may have concluded, but the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to resonate in the hearts of those he left behind. Rest in peace, Loyd, and know that your spirit will forever grace the fields and skies of your beloved Kansas.

A graveside service honoring Loyd's life will be 2:00pm, Saturday, October 5 at Memorial Park Cemetery, Dalhart with Pastor Terry Stegall officiating.

Online condolences may be made to Loyd's family at www.horizonfuneral.com.