Rufus Kirkland

Rufus Kirkland, 82, of Stratford, departed this life on April 20th, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was the second son born to the late Gladys (Breland) Kirkland and Joseph Frank Kirkland on April 19th, 1942.
Rufus attended Stratford High School during his freshman year and was later transferred to Bunnell High School, where he graduated in 1959. He later joined the U.S. Army as a Communications Specialist, serving his time in Stuttgart, Germany. Following his honorable discharge four years later, he was employed at Raybestos Manhattan, (Raymark). Years later he was employed as a security guard at Bridgeport Hospital, and subsequently, St. Vincent’s Medical Center after 22 years of service in security. During his time, anyone fortunate enough to be graced by his presence, would sometimes find themselves serenaded in song by his smooth baritone voice. Singing was his passion. Rufus had also been a long-time fan of the NY Mets baseball team, since the inception of the ball club. He never tired of listening to the games, (as he preferred) broadcast over the radio. Rufus’ other interests included music trivia, world history, meteorology and watching boxing matches on TV.
Rufus was preceded in death by his parents, Gladys & Joseph Kirkland, Sr., brother Joseph Kirkland, and sister Evelyn Mebane. He leaves to cherish his life, his wife of 59 years, Louzetta Kirkland, son Jason Kirkland, and daughters Renee Kirkland Sawyer and Sharon Kirkland, his brother James Kirkland of Florida, and Mrs. Pamela Newton of Bridgeport, Nephews, Joseph Kirkland of Bridgeport, Kenneth Mebane of Virginia, Robert Mebane of Bridgeport, Ernest (Trae) Newton III, of Bridgeport, Chad Newton of Bridgeport, and his niece, Kayla J. Newton of Bridgeport. He leaves to mourn his passing 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, and a host of loving friends.