"I have fought the good fight. I have done my best, but in the end we all must go this way if you want to see King Jesus!"

-Pastor Wilbert Kirklin

Kinder-Celebration of Life services for Wilbert James Kirklin, 78, will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 11 o'clock a.m. at Ardoin Memorial Chapel (Formerly First United Methodist Church of Kinder, 1002 5th Avenue Kinder, LA 70648). Rev. Eddie Alfred will officiate. Wilbert will be laid to rest at St. John Cemetery in Kinder immediately following his services.

Wilbert's family will receive friends and visitors at Ardoin Memorial Chapel on Saturday, December 2, 2023, from 9 o'clock a.m. until time of service. All of Wilbert's arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ardoin/Allen Parish Funeral Home of Kinder.

Wilbert was the third child born to the union of Hunter Sr. and Hattie B. Kirklin on January 30, 1945. He was a lifelong resident of Oberlin and attended Carver High School. On December 24, 1965, Wilbert would marry the love of his life, Mary Lois Prudhomme. From this union James Lavelle and Jan Janelle were born. Wilbert was a faithful and devoted servant of Christ and spent many years as a minister of the gospel. He was the pastor of Greater First Baptist Church in Kinder for 15 years. Wilbert was a man who wore many hats. He was a devoted husband to his wife Mary for over 50 years. He was also a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, pastor, mentor, friend, advice giver, and leader. The list could go on and on. He remained all these things to many people until his passing. Wilbert will be forever missed and unconditionally loved by all who knew him. His life and legacy will be forever ingrained in our hearts and minds.

Those left mourn Wilbert's passing include one son, James Sr. (Chenita) Kirklin of Oberlin, LA; one daughter, Jan (Charles) Thomas of Cypress, TX; one sister, Gloria Jean Kirby of San Antonio, TX; four grandchildren, Shayna Kirklin, Mariah Thomas, James Kirklin II, and Charleigh Thomas; three great grandchildren, Michael, Mercedes, and Zy'Riana Kirklin, and a host of numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Wilbert is preceded in death by his parents, Hunter Kirklin Sr., and Hattie B. Kirklin; his wife Mary Lois Kirklin; and two brothers, Hunter Jr., and Wilfred Kirklin.

Condolences and words of comfort may be expressed to Wilbert's family at www.ardoinfuneralhome.com or our Facebook page at Ardoin/Allen Parish Funeral Homes.