Robert “Dale” Kirksey, 79, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 2:21 p.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at his home with his family by his side. He was born June 24, 1946, in Granite City, a son of the late Oliver Cleo and Sallie Lee (Milton) Kirksey.
Dale married the love of his life, Kathleen A. “Kathy” (Clifford) Kirksey, on July 5, 1981, in Edwardsville, Illinois, and she preceded him in death on December 21, 2019.
He retired in 1987 from Pepsi-Cola after 27 years of dedicated service as a route salesman. Dale also worked for several years as a salesman with Belleville Fence and Granite City Glass and Fence. A talented taxidermist, his artistry and craftsmanship were admired and recognized by many throughout the years. He proudly served on the Mitchell Water Board for many years and was well known for his strong work ethic, friendly nature, and willingness to help others.
Dale had a deep appreciation for classic and vintage cars and spent many enjoyable years participating in car clubs, car shows, and cruises, earning numerous awards with his treasured cars and trucks. He also had a lifelong love of bluegrass music and was a gifted musician who enjoyed playing the guitar, mandolin, and accordion.
An outdoorsman at heart, Dale loved deer hunting, fishing, and camping. He especially cherished the time spent with family and friends at his cabin in Pope County, Illinois. He had a special love for animals and dearly loved his faithful dog, Opie. Dale also found comfort and joy in reading the Bible and treasured the many memories shared with those he loved most.
He is survived by his brother, Tim (Tammy) Kirksey of Granite City; his sister, Sandra (Robert) May of Collinsville; his sister-in-law, Sandy Kirksey of Carlyle; nieces and nephews, Kim (Terry) Wilkerson, Melissa (Rob Fillion) Gridley, Peggy (Matt) Carson, Casey (Madi) Mikhayel, Callie (Aliana) Kirksey, and Becca (Tice Doty) Kirksey; and by his great-nieces and great-nephews, Taylor, Jonathan, Kennedy, Oliver, Aria, Nixon, and Maximus.
In addition to his beloved wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Molly Kirksey; his son, Robert Dale “Bob” Kirksey, Jr.; and his brother, Donald Kirksey.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, with Pastor Steve Gray officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Catholic Cemetery in Belleville.
Memorials may be made to the Down Syndrome Association, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the American Cancer Society, or the American Heart Association. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
