Bryson Ty Kirkland, age 13, of Martin, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2020 at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Born August 2, 2007, in Greer, SC, he was the son of Larry and Cherie (Proffit) Kirkland. He loved animals and playing video games. He enjoyed horseback riding, swimming, and hiking in State Parks. He loved playing with other kids and making people laugh. He loved his church and was a member of Martin Baptist Church.
He is survived by his parents: Larry & Cherie Kirkland; Sister: Grace Kirkland; brother: Weston Kirkland; paternal grandparents: Keith Kirkland (Jolynn) and Dianne Kirkland; maternal grandparents: Rodney Proffit and Doris Proffit; uncles: Jeff Kirkland (Sunshine), Keith Kirkland (Cindy), and Patrick Proffit; and his Shih-Tzu: Polo, who he was training to be a therapy dog.
The funeral service will be held 3:00 p.m. Monday, August 17, 2020 at Martin Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Thomas officiating. Cremation will follow the service. Bryson will lie in state at the funeral home, for those that wish to visit, Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Monday from 12:00 p.m. until the service hour. In lieu of flowers memorials are requested in Bryson's memory to Operation Underground Railroad (www.ourrescue.org), a non-profit that works to rescue children from human trafficking.
Those in attendance are reminded to adhere to social distancing and public health guidelines. To sign the online guest register and leave personal condolences to the family, please visit stricklandfh.com.
Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements.