James Tallie Kirkland

James Kirkland, age 71 of Ft. Pierce, died February 25, 2012 at Treasure Coast Hospice House. Born in Tifton, Georgia and growing up in Fort Lauderdale he moved to Fort Pierce 20 years ago.

He proudly served in the military from 1959-1963 and was a Vietnam Veteran. Captain James joined Civil Air Patrol (CAP) in 2002 and served in many positions within the organization. His most recent position was at state level as Assistant Director of Communications for CAP Florida Wing. He also had held the positions of Squadron Deputy Commander, Testing Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Recruiting Officer and many others during his service to Civil Air Patrol.

In addition, although not a pilot, he flew many search missions as a Mission Observer and acquired a considerable list of emergency beacon "finds". He was also very proficient as a ground team leader and instructor. After retirement from New Holland Tractor and Farm (later Sunrise Tractor), Kirkland became a St. Lucie County school volunteer and donated thousands of hours serving students and the athletic department. Most notably, Kirkland worked as the Chief Athletic volunteer at FPCHS where he ran concession operations and was a surrogate parent and grandparent to countless student athletes.

He is survived by son Michael Kirkland of Dallas, Texas and daughter Megan Kirkland of Nashville, Tennessee, sister, La-vone Kay of Okeechobee, Florida, brother, Bill Briley of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and a host of nieces and nephews along with his adopted family of friends at Fort Pierce Central High School
Memorial contributions may be made to the James T. Kirkland Memorial Fund C/O Ft. Pierce Central High School Athletic Department.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at Fort Pierce Central High School at 5:30 P.M.