Donald Edward Kirkbride, 83, of Royalton, passed away on September 6, 2026, surrounded by his children and grandchildren, with his family by his side.

Born on January 11, 1943, in Centreville, New Brunswick, Donald was a hardworking, talented, and one-of-a-kind man who will be remembered by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Donald worked as a carpenter throughout the area, working on both sides of the border. He was incredibly talented with his hands and took pride in the work he did. While his work was an important part of his life, his greatest joy was his family.

He loved having his kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren around him. There was nothing he enjoyed more than having a house full of family, hearing the noise and laughter, and watching the little ones run their famous loop through the house. His home was a place where everyone was welcome, and there was always room for one more.

Donald was known for his incredible personality, his quick wit, and his love of joking around. He was famous for irritating the people he loved just enough to keep everyone laughing. He was a great storyteller and could always be counted on for a good story, a joke, or a mischievous comment. He had a way of making people feel comfortable and leaving them with a smile.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and dancing, and he had a particular love for pies and sweets. He also adored his dog, Buddy, who was a very special part of his life and was loved dearly.

Donald will be deeply missed by his children, Kathy Kirkbride; Michelle and Joe McAdam; Donnie and Shallie Kirkbride; and Bonnie Webb, his 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Robert Kirkbride, Wayne Kirkbride, Gloria Estey, and Barb Dionne.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sharon; his parents, Fred and Arlene Kirkbride; his children, Jon Clayton, Joel Clayton, Christina Kirkbride, and Randy Kirkbride; his grandson, Camden King; and his brothers, Gary Kirkbride and Charles Kirkbride.

Donald lived 83 years filled with hard work, adventure, laughter, family, and countless stories. He was “tougher than a boiled owl,” smart, funny, stubborn, and full of personality. He had a gift for making people laugh and a way of turning ordinary moments into memories that would be talked about for years.

His family will remember the sound of his laughter, the stories he told, the jokes he played, the way he filled a room with his personality, and the love he had for a house full of his family. His greatest legacy will be the family he loved so dearly and the memories he created with them. The stories, laughter, traditions, and lessons he leaves behind will continue through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched.

A life so full of stories deserves to be remembered by telling them.

Visitation will be held at Carleton Funeral Home in Jacksonville, New Brunswick, at 12:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Graveside service will follow at the Charleston Cemetery in Charleston, New Brunswick.

Donald will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family and friends.

If so desired Donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association .