Ann Kirkley

Ann Ford Kirkley, 87, of Auburn, Alabama passed away on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025. Ann was born on July 25th, 1938, in Wedowee, Alabama. She was an only child born to Willie Mae and Robert Bev Ford. Ann was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Luther Kirkley. Ann's father served as Sheriff in Randolph County Alabama.

Ann graduated from Randolph County High School in 1956, where she was a cheerleader. She attended Alabama Polytechnic Institute (API), now Auburn University. She earned her degree in Early Childhood Education. After college she married Luther Kirkley of Fayette, Alabama. She worked at Notasulga High School from 1960-1962. She left teaching to devote herself to being a mother and assisting her husband in his family business, Kirkley Floor Covering, in Auburn.

In 1980 Ann returned to college to attain a master's in education from Auburn University. Upon completion of her master's degree, she was employed as a second grade teacher in Macon County Alabama. She taught until her retirement in 1998. She loved teaching and adored her students and coworkers in the Notasulga community. Teaching was her calling in life. Those were the happiest years of her career.

Ann was a faithful member of Auburn United Methodist Church where she served as a community leader. She loved her church family dearly.

Ann is survived by her son, Ken Kirkley (Robyn), her daughter Kerri Ann Kirkley Needham, (both of Auburn), her grandson Daniel Kirkley, great grandson Brody Kirkley, Brody's mother Lakin Kirkley, a special cousin Jimmy Croley of Phenix City, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ann was actively involved in her community over the many years. She was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority, volunteered at East Alabama Medical Center, Woman's Club of Auburn, the Retired Teacher's Association, the Red Hat Society, the Campus Club, the Sewing Club, and various other organizations.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Breast Cancer Association, Christ Methodist Church, or the New Hope Rescue in Opelika.

A special thanks and recognition to the many caregivers that cared for our beloved mother. Special appreciation also to Tracey Brown, Niquitha Dawson, Ruth Durr, Melissa Hughley, Juanita Morgan, and Dornita Welch.