Noble Leon Kirkpatrick

Noble Leon Kirkpatrick, 91, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, at NHC Parklane in Columbia, South Carolina. Born on January 30, 1935, in Glenville, West Virginia, he was the eldest son of the late Noble G. Kirkpatrick and Leora McCullough Kirkpatrick.

Leon ("Lee") was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Freda G. (Wright) Kirkpatrick, his son, Stephen Lee Kirkpatrick, his parents, Noble and Leora Kirkpatrick, his sister, Norma Woofter, and brother, Kermit Kirkpatrick.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Phyllis Porter (and husband, Russ), Jane Suggs, and Angela Gedra, along with 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren whom he dearly loved and cherished, as well as his beloved sister, Janet Rogers of Jane Lew, WV.

Leon was a life-long Christian who loved Jesus. As a longtime member of Calvary Chapel Columbia, he was known for his welcoming spirit, kind heart, hospitality, and helping those in need. Leon was extroverted with a good sense of humor, loved the outdoors, and made friends wherever he went.

Leon dedicated more than 35 years of service as a city bus driver for Regional Transit Authority (RTA) in Dayton, Ohio. During his career, he proudly represented the Dayton RTA in bus driving competitions (rodeos), earning multiple state and national awards for his driving skills.

A man of many talents and interests, Leon loved woodworking, working on cars, and spending time with family. He enjoyed traveling throughout his life, especially with his wife, Freda, on their Honda Gold Wing motorcycle. Leon lived an active, full and meaningful life and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life was held at Calvary Chapel Columbia, 1755 12th Street, Cayce, SC 29033 on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 11:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Calvary Chapel Columbia, and/or Hospice Care of South Carolina, Columbia.