J. Ross Kirtley

J. Ross Kirtley, loving husband, father and granddad, departed this life on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022, at the age of 67.

He was born Nov. 21, 1954, to Wendell J. and Thelma Lee Kirtley, nee Hastey.

He was born and raised in Kingfisher, graduating high school in 1973.

Ross then attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

He spent the majority of his career in the oil and gas industry, primarily in operations, most recently serving as vice president of services and chief operating officer.

The most important thing to Ross was his relationship with Jesus Christ.

He attended church regularly, often times serving in a leadership role, and most recently was a member of Piedmont First Baptist Church.

He and his wife, Jody, spent countless hours pouring into younger couples through their marriage classes at Life Church.

Ross, a natural mentor, was quick to share his faith with anyone, impacting numerous lives. He was known as a leader among Christian men in the oilfield.

His favorite hobbies included bird hunting, fishing, jeeping in the mountains, cheering on his OSU Cowboys, hanging out with his dogs and, most importantly, spending time with his family.

He always had a dog with him and his favorite was Maggie.

He cherished his 14 grandkids, who all lovingly called him “Granddad.”

He was present at as many sporting events as possible and always found time to cook pancakes for them on Saturday mornings.

His work ethic was unmatched and is remembered saying, “they might be smarter, faster or stronger, but they can’t outwork you if you don’t let them.”

J. Ross was preceded in death by his parents, sister Sherri Coy, and brother-inlaw SFC Carlo Meth.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Jody Kirtley; children B.J. Kirtley and wife Melissa, Nathan Kirtley and wife Callie, Nick Emerson and wife Courtney, Alex Emerson and wife Madison, Sam Emerson and wife Katlin; sister Debbie Kirtley; niece Cara Phillips and husband Wade.

Also by his 14 grandchildren, Cameron, Jake, Keiton, Lane, Avery, Gracie, Preslie, Cooper, Natalie, Boston, Luke, Tyler, Stella and Clara Jo.

Services were 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, at Piedmont First Baptist Church with interment following in Kingfisher Cemetery under the direction of McNeil’s Funeral Service, Mustang.