Larry Cleve Kirkland

Larry Cleve Kirkland, resident of Burleson, Texas, passed away on October 7, 2025, at Harris Hospital in Fort Worth at the age of 74 years.

Larry Cleve Kirkland was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. Larry was an Army veteran, where he trained as an air traffic controller. He then went into restaurant management, which in turn grew into ownership of Kirkland’s Barbecue restaurant in Burleson, where he earned the nickname “BBQ.” He worked for the USPS as a mail carrier, until he retired.

Larry was a humorous man, always making his friends and family laugh. Larry was known for his outgoing and sociable personality. He loved to tease and play practical jokes with his friends and family. His loud spirit will forever be missed. The world feels quieter now that he is gone.

Larry loved to bowl on his team along with his friends and was an avid poker player, making annual trips to Vegas. He was a dedicated sports fan and loved all his local teams, especially The Cowboys. With his family, Larry would also frequent the local theaters for a movie. His most recognized hobby, however, was his worldly travels alongside his wife, Deborah.

Larry is survived by his wife of 45 years, Deborah Anne Kirkland; children, Brandi Nadine Kirkland, Kimberley Macalik, Amanda Nimeth; grandchildren, Madison Nadine Salazar, Colston Evans, Ashlee Macalik, Alex Macalik, Alijah Macalik, and Juan White Jr.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Leona and Benjamin C. Tuggle, grandparents Lora and Richard Kirkland Sr.; father Richard Kirkland Jr.; mother Wilma Nadine Kirkland; brother Darrell Allen Kirkland; sister Donna Kaye Kirkland; and his only son, Richard Charles Kirkland.