David Earl "Pop" Kirkland

Memorial services for David Earl “Pop” Kirkland, 86, of Lufkin will be held Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Randy Brown officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Carroway Funeral Home.

Mr. Kirkland was born October 24, 1939 in Lufkin, Texas to the late Zeffie Mae (Davis) and Elvin Earl Kirkland, and died Saturday, February 21, 2026 in a local hospital.

David was a lifelong resident of Lufkin. After graduating from Lufkin High School in 1958, he proudly served in the United States Navy for six years, including time spent in Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica. He worked for the Lufkin Police Department and retired as the Assistant Chief of Police after 35 years of service. During this time he was selected to attend the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Early in his retirement he enjoyed traveling and camping with Barbara and other family and friends. He also discovered a love of building radio controlled model airplanes and spent many hours flying airplanes with his friends at Lufkin Area RC Modelers Club. His love for the water was evident. He raised his kids to love any beach, loved to cruise with his sister and daughters, and he spent countless hours fishing with his son-in-law, Richard, and anyone else that would go. His greatest enjoyments were reading, exploring new recipes, and spending time with family and friends. It was evident in the way David lived his life that he was a loyal man of God who made a lasting impact on many. His family will deeply miss him, but they are grateful for the legacy of faith and love he leaves behind.

Survivors include his daughters and sons-in-law, Davelyn and Richard Runnels, Emily Metzger, Anna and James Moricca; grandchildren and spouses, Jessica and Luke Whittlesey, Jordan Runnels, Sarah Metzger, Neela Metzger, Kevin and Mallorie McMullen, Jonathan and Jaleigh Dewberry, Joshua Moricca, Jaci Moricca; great-grandchildren, Jasper, Truitt, and Cora Whittlesey, Stormi and Rylee Runnels, Riley McMullen; sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Alan Upchurch; and numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 52 years, Barbara Sue (Mills) Kirkland; and grandson, Jacob Runnels.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice in the Pines, 1504 W. Frank Avenue, Lufkin, Texas 75904.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home.

Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed, at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.