In Loving Memory of Arnold Houston ‘Rooster’ Kilgore

Arnold Houston ‘Rooster’ Kilgore, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful minister of the gospel, proud veteran, cherished son, brother, and uncle, passed away on August 27, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on August 17, 1948, in Whitwell, Tennessee, Rooster lived a life marked by faith, service, kindness, and generosity. He served his country honorably as a soldier in the Army serving from 1968-1969 in the Big Red One. He was a Purple Heart recipient after being wounded in Vietnam. He was later stationed in Frankfurt, Germany and was honorably discharged in 1971. He carried throughout his life the strength, discipline, and devotion to duty that defined his military service. Above all, Rooster was a man of God. As a minister of the gospel, he faithfully shared God's Word, encouraged those who were struggling, and served others with humility and compassion. He pastored at Fairview Methodist Church in Cleveland, Alabama from 1977 to 1985. He was a devoted Sunday School Teacher who delighted in teaching the Crown Jewels class at Kimberly United Methodist for many years. He re-entered the ministry in 2003 as the pastor of Stewart’s Chapel Methodist Church. His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit; it could be seen in the way he treated people, gave generously, offered comfort, and lived out his faith each day. He deeply loved his wife, Estell, and treasured the life they built together. He was a devoted daddy to Laura and Kim, and a proud grandfather whose love, wisdom, and presence will remain in the hearts of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family was one of his greatest joys, and he showed his love through his words, his sacrifices, and his steadfast care. Rooster will be remembered for his gentle spirit, generous heart, unwavering faith, and willingness to help anyone in need. His life touched many, and his legacy of love and service will continue through all who knew him. 

Rooster is survived by his beloved wife, Estell; his children, Laura Rena Davis, (Michael), Kimberly Kilgore Barber (Lane); his grandchildren, Britany Melvin (Patrick), Skye Tharp (Caleb), Trevor Barber, Alyssa White (Jacob), Anna Grace Crook (Bryson), Matthew Isbell, Samantha Barber, Isabella Kitchens, Slade Kitchens; and 11 great-grandchildren; his brothers and sister, Richard (Dick) Kilgore, Ronald Kilgore, Ricky Kilgore, Jacky Kilgore and Devota (Hornet) Kilgore, Patsy Jones, Don Kilgore; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Sam Houston and Nellie Mae Kilgore, Roy Kilgore, Sr and Lucille Kilgore; Brothers - Ronnie Kilgore, Lanny Kilgore, Roy Kilgore, Jr and sister Virginia ‘Susie’ Ferrell.

A celebration of his life will be held on August 31, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at North Point Community Church (Kimberly Methodist), located at 9178 Old Highway 31, Kimberly, AL 35091. Burial will follow at Stewarts Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at North Point Community Church. Military honors will be presented in recognition of his faithful service to his country. Though his earthly presence will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he finished his race with faith and is now at rest in the presence of the Lord. "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." 

2 Timothy 4:7
His life was a blessing, his faith was an example, and his love will remain with us always.