01/08/2026
It is with deep sadness to share that Ray Kirkland, Director of Creative Media for the UofL Cardinal Marching Band, passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Ray was a beloved staff member who volunteered with the program for 14 years.
Previously, Ray served as CEO for Louisville Medical Center Federal Credit Union. In retirement, he became an active volunteer, working with multiple arts groups throughout KY and within UofL School of Music. He traveled around the country with the UofL CMB to capture performance highlights through thousands of videos and photos. Whether at the Sugar Bowl, the KY Derby, or Cards March, Ray always remarked how lucky he felt to volunteer with the band and how he never dreamed of having these opportunities. The band of course felt lucky to have him.
Ray shunned the spotlight and preferred to work quietly in the background behind a camera. His favorite part of the job was interacting with students and he cherished his opportunities to be a part of their lives. Ray was frequently invited to students’ weddings and graduations, a testament to how much he was beloved by the CMB.
Funeral services will be held at St. Matthew’s Baptist Church in Louisville, KY on Monday, January 12. Visitation is at 11am followed by a service at 12pm. The church is located at 3515 Grandview Avenue, Louisville, KY, 40207.
The UofL Bands extends its deepest condolences to Ray’s family and especially to son Steve Kirkland, who is “The Voice” of the UofL Cardinal Marching Band.
