Lori Ann Kirkland's Obituary
Lori Ann Kirkland, age 63, of Cincinnati, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at MercyOne Medical Center in Centerville, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on September 30, 1962, in Centerville, Iowa, Lori was the cherished daughter of Harold and Donna (Wendland) Dudley. She graduated with the Centerville High School Class of 1980 before continuing her education at Indian Hills Community College, where she earned her LPN degree. She was united in marriage to David Kirkland on March 6, 1982 in Cincinnati, Iowa. To this union, two children were born, Kacey and Trenton.
For more than forty years, Lori dedicated her life to caring for others through her work at Mercy Clinic in Centerville. Nursing was more than a profession to Lori-it was part of who she was. She built lasting friendships with her Mercy work family and found joy in the everyday conversations, especially those centered around flowers, gardening, and life's simple blessings.
Outside of work, Lori's greatest joy came from her family, especially her beloved grandchildren. She treasured every opportunity to make memories with them, whether it was family vacations, pool parties, bonfires filled with laughter, or simply being together. Her home was a gathering place full of warmth, love, and the smell of something delicious cooking in the kitchen. Her son could always count on a special birthday cheesecake made with love, while vacations with her daughter became treasured traditions that Lori held close to her heart.
Lori had a deep appreciation for beauty in all forms. She poured endless care into her greenhouse and flower beds, creating colorful spaces that reflected her gentle spirit. She also enjoyed rockhounding and lapidary work, turning ordinary stones into something polished and beautiful-much like the way she touched the lives of those around her.
Lori will be remembered for her caring heart, her devotion to family, her thoughtful traditions, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and loved. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and beauty to countless lives, and her memory will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.
Those left to cherish Lori's memory are her husband of 44 years, David Kirkland; her children, Kacey Kirkland and Trenton Kirkland; her grandchildren, Harrison and Evalyn Kirkland; her mother, Donna Dudley; her sister, Gail (Mark) Smith; her sister-in-law, Debbie Kirkland-Tait; her nephews, Damon Smith and Tyler Tait; her niece, Megan Tait-Miller; and her Airedale (dog) children, Sage, Vader, and Betty; as well as several extended family members.
Lori was preceded in death by her father, Harold Dudley; and her in-laws, Donnie and Jean Kirkland.
Per wishes, cremation has been accorded and there will be no services held at this time. Memorials may be written to Trent Kirkland, to be used towards Harrison and Evalyn Kirkland's future education, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Kirkland Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome
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