Ruth Ann Bird Kirkland, 83, of Kannapolis, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Ruth was born on September 4, 1942, in Philadelphia County, PA. She was a cherished daughter of the late Charles Bird and Eva Cairins Bird.

Ruth graduated from Philadelphia Bible College in 1967. She loved spending time in the mountains and found joy in the beauty of God's creation.

Ruth and her husband, Eugene were faithful members of Lawndale Baptist Church for many years, where she served as a deaconess under Pastor Bob Ramsay.

Her family will dearly miss her but finds comfort in knowing she is with the Lord.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband of 57 years, Eugene Kirkland; children, Paul Kirkland, Timothy Kirkland, and Susan Kirkland Lawing; grandchildren, Ambri Machuca, Travis Murphy, Lily Lawing, and Charles Lawing; brother, David Bird; and sister, Lois Ludwick.

A memorial service will he held at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Highest Praise Family Worship Center in Landis.