Earline Jordan Kirby

Earline Culpepper Jordan Kirby, a beacon of joy and love, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 91. Born on April 10, 1933, in Malone, Florida, Earline's life was a testament to the power of positivity and the warmth of a caring heart.

Earline graduated with the class of 1951 from Cottonwood High School. She moved to Cowarts, Alabama when she married Aaron Jordan in 1951. For many years she focused on what was important to her which was being a loving wife and mother. She later built her career with Houston County Juvenile Court Services, dedicating her time to the well-being of her community’s youth. A testament to her culinary skills, in 1976 she was crowned the winner of the National Peanut Festival Recipe contest.

Her faith and commitment to her community were exemplified through her active involvement at Cowarts Baptist Church and Bethel Baptist Church. There, she nurtured her spiritual life and formed enduring bonds with her fellow congregants, whom she regarded as extended family.

Family was the cornerstone of Earline's life. She was the loving wife of the late Aaron Jordan, and together they raised a family that became her pride and joy. Earline was also preceded in death by her second husband, Harvey Kirby. She leaves behind a legacy through her children, Steve Jordan (Lori), Keith Jordan, Karen Jordan Boothe (Bob), and Hope Jordan Odom (Joe). Earline was the adored grandmother to five grandchildren: Brooks Silcox (Lisa), Chase Jordan (Sarah), Mallory Bancroft (Bill), Tyler Jordan, and Blake Jordan. Her family circle expanded with the joy of eight great-grandchildren and several close nieces and nephews, all of whom she cherished deeply.

Earline is also preceded in death by her parents, Calvin and Florence Culpepper; her three sisters, identical twin Merline Gant, Mary Lou West, and Bertha Lee Turner; her brother, O.B. Culpepper; and sister-in-law, Hattie Lee Culpepper.

Earline's passion for life extended into her home, where she was the quintessential homemaker. Her kitchen was a haven where she lovingly prepared meals for her children, with the aromas of her cooking filling the home with warmth and comfort. She was not only recognized for her culinary talents but also for her impeccable sense of style. Earline was always dressed to the nines, her elegance and beauty a true reflection of her inner grace.

Earline Kirby's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, laughter, and service. She was a pretty lady, not just in appearance but in her actions and the love she gave so freely. Her presence was a gift to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her, and her memory will continue to inspire and bring joy to those she has left behind.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to all of the Extendicare staff for their kindness, loving care, and friendship so freely given to “Kirby Girl.”

A celebration of Earline’s life will be held at 4:00 pm on Sunday, October 27, 2024 in Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ricky Plummer officiating. Earline will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park. Friends and family are welcome to gather at Sunset Funeral Home on Sunday from 3-4 pm to honor her memory.

Serving as a pallbearers will be Chase Jordan, Tyler Jordan, Blake Jordan, Chris Strohm, Raymond Wiehe and Brooks Silcox.