Vincent Lamar Kirkland, 62, of Anderson, South Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by faith, family, service, and a lifelong dedication to shaping young lives through baseball. His passing has brought deep sorrow to his loved ones, former players, colleagues, and the many members of the community who knew and respected him.
Born on August 11, 1963, in Geneva, Alabama, Vince was the son of Patricia Austin Phillips and the late Gerald Lamar Kirkland. He grew up with a strong sense of discipline and determination, qualities that would later define both his professional career and his approach to mentoring others. He graduated from Sidney Lanier High School and went on to attend Auburn University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Vince built a long and successful career with Michelin Tire Corporation, where he worked for nearly four decades as a TEC Service Coordinator. Known for his reliability, problem-solving skills, and strong work ethic, he earned the respect of his colleagues and contributed greatly to the organization throughout his tenure.
However, one of the most defining aspects of Vince’s life was his passion for coaching baseball. For more than 30 years, he served as the coach of the Anderson Cavaliers Varsity Baseball team, leaving a lasting impact on hundreds of young athletes. To Vince, baseball was never just a sport—it was a platform for mentorship. He often emphasized character, discipline, accountability, and faith, shaping his players into not only better athletes but better men.
He was known for his steady leadership, deep knowledge of the game, and his belief that coaching extended far beyond wins and losses. One of his most remembered sayings was, “I’m not coaching baseball, I’m coaching young men,” a philosophy that guided everything he did on and off the field.
Vince was deeply committed to his faith and his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Kelley Hagan Kirkland, and together they shared nearly 40 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and unwavering support. He was a proud father and grandfather, cherishing each of his children and grandchildren and celebrating their accomplishments with immense pride.
He is survived by his wife, Kelley; his mother, Patricia Austin Phillips; his three sons, Ryan Kirkland (Lauralee), Matthew Kirkland (Lindsay), and Tyler Kirkland (Lauren); and his beloved grandchildren—Finley, Leo, Wren, Hallie, Cooper, and Gray. He is also survived by his siblings, Stan Kirkland (JoAnn) and Lynn Favre (Bob).
Vince will be remembered for his kindness, selflessness, strong faith, and ability to fix anything—both mechanically and in the lives of those he mentored. His impact will continue to be felt for generations.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at Sullivan-King Mortuary Chapel in Anderson, with burial to follow at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. prior to the service.