James “Foster” Kirkland, age 72, of Daphne, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, Alabama, with his wife and daughter by his side.

Born July 1, 1953, in Dothan, Alabama, Foster was raised in Webb, Alabama and graduated from Ashford High School in 1971. From 1973 to 1977, he proudly served in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-5) while stationed at Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas, with the 7th Bomb Wing of the Strategic Air Command. He carried pride in his service throughout his life.

Following his military service, Foster attended Auburn University, where he graduated with a remarkable 4.0 GPA—an accomplishment that reflected his discipline, determination, and love of learning. He later built a career as a buyer in the automotive and aviation industries, work that eventually led him to make his home in Daphne, Alabama.

Foster is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Linda Sachsenheimer Kirkland; his daughter, Kristine April Coburn and her husband, Ryan; and his cherished grandchildren, Declan Coburn, Lillian Coburn, Madison Gilliam, Caiden Gatto, and Nicolas Rosandich, who lovingly knew him as “Papa.” He is also survived by his sister, Carol Kirkland Wilisch and her husband, Alex; his sister-in-law, Sandra Kirkland; his nephew, Scott Drinkwater and his wife, Shannon; his niece, Jessica Kirkland; his great-nieces and nephews, Taylor Kirkland, Cody Kirkland, and John Kirkland; and his in-laws, Bobby and Cheryl Sachsenheimer and Paul Sachsenheimer, as well as several other extended family members and friends who will remember him for his kindness, humor, and steady character.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kilby Kirkland and Dannie Mozelle (Ryals) Kirkland, and his siblings, Kilby “Kirk” Kirkland and Wanda Delores Kirkland.

Foster was a devoted husband and father whose love and presence shaped the lives of everyone he cared for. Patient, quick-witted, and full of playful humor, he had a way of quietly showing up for the people he loved—always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or offer guidance. He surrounded himself with family and loved them wholeheartedly, pouring himself fully into their lives and leaving a lasting mark on each of them.

He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: reading, learning, and spending time with his family and his pets, Darla and Piper. His faith was a central part of his life, guiding his thoughts and actions, and he devoted much of his time to studying and reflecting on scripture.

Foster loved sports, with Braves baseball holding a special place in his heart. Many afternoons and evenings were spent watching the Braves play—often dozing off mid-game, yet somehow always waking up knowing the score. He also cheered passionately for Auburn football, sharing in the excitement of the Tigers’ victories with pride while he waited for spring training to return.

A visitation will be held Monday, March 16, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home in Daphne, Alabama. Family and friends will then gather at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort, Alabama, for a 2:00 p.m. committal, where military honors will be rendered in recognition of his service to our country.

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms… I am going there to prepare a place for you. — John 14:1–4

Foster will be remembered for his steady faith, the quiet strength of his character, his humor, and the loving way he cared for those around him. Though he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he trusted throughout his life.

ARRANGEMENTS BY
WOLFE-BAYVIEW FUNERAL HOMES
& CREMATORY, INC.
27409 U. S. HWY. 98
DAPHNE, AL 36526
(251) 625-2900