Paul Newman "Butch" Kirkland, Jr., 84, of Wallingford, passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Baptist Health in Lexington, Kentucky.

Butch was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on March 7, 1941,  to the late Paul Newman Kirkland, Sr. and Thelma Dillon Kirkland.

From a young age, Butch was very interested in classic cars, especially the 1957 Ford Thunderbird.  He loved going to, and competing in car shows and even brought home a few trophies.  Although in his younger years he worked for places such as Carnation Milk, Modern Laundry, and Fleming Homes his love of cars pulled him into the world of car sales.  Butch was well known in the industry, from starting at Jimmy Parson's Ford to working at Charlie Johnson Auto, he was always happy to help find your dream car.

In addition to his love of cars, he really enjoyed spending time in the kitchen.  He was an excellent cook, and shared that love with the people of Millersburg, when he opened and managed Madison's Restaurant for several years.  Butch went on to finish his career with the Licking Valley Community Action Program, as a transport driver, helping clients get to and from important appointments.

Butch also enjoyed exercising, cycling up to seven miles a day, gospel music and the music of Elvis Presley, spending time with friends and family, and going to church.  He was a member of Foxport Baptist Church.

He is survived by two of his sons, Bret (Dee Gee Roe) Kirkland and Trevor (Rachel) Kirkland; his special friend, Betty Robinson; his three grandchildren, Hannah Marie Kirkland, Sarah Grace Kirkland, and Zachary Kirkland.  He is also survived by his brother, Keith Kirkland; his daughter-in-law, Jennifer Harmon Kirkland, his two nephews, Brian Wallingford and Pat Brannen; his niece, Katie Kirkland; his lifelong friend, Johnny Ray Hord; along with many extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents Thelma and Paul Sr., Butch was preceded in death by three of his sons, John Paul Kirkland, and twins Brent and Brad Kirkland; his sister, Jane Kirkland Black; his sister-in-law, Brenda Hord Kirkland; and his niece, Kari Kirkland Thacker.

The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Flemingsburg Baptist Church, with Pastor Harry Meadows and Bro. Travis Roberts officiating.  Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m.,  until the hour of service at the church, located at 1856 Elizaville Road, Flemingsburg, KY, 41041.  Butch will be laid to rest in Mount Carmel Cemetery beside his sons.

Pallbearers include Bret Kirkland, Trevor Kirkland, Pat Brannen, Johnny Ray Hord, Tyler Dillon, and Travis Roberts.  Honorary Pallbearers include Brian Wallingford, Lane Gray, Ashley Dillon, and Zachary Kirkland.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Butch to a children's charity of your choice.

Boone-Nickell Funeral Home is caring for Butch and his family.

Friends may offer online condolences at www.boonenickellfuneralhome.com