Edward Earle Kirkbride, 89

June 03, 2025

Edward Earle Kirkbride, 89, died on June 3, 2025. Edward was born February 22, 1936, in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, to Earle Rosslyn and Beatrice Bidwell (Hedley) Kirkbride.

Edward is preceded in death by his former wife of 57 years, Carole (Hiller) Kirkbride. He is survived by his son, Dr. Robert Earle Kirkbride (Melissa Grey) of New York, a daughter Austin Lyn Kirkbride (Jeff Foell) of Arizona, and a brother Jon Mahlon Kirkbride, Sr. of Pennsylvania. Ed was immensely grateful to his loving companion and wife, Dolores ‘Dee’ Hagerstrom whom he predeceases.

Ed attended Ripon College as a Mathematics major. He then studied Architecture at the University of Minnesota before receiving his master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. In 1964, Ed was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to live and study for a year in Rome, Italy. He proudly served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Captain.

As an architect and educational facilities planner, Ed was a lifelong advocate for improving the interrelation of learning, buildings, and the communities for children (particularly inner-city and Pre-K children). He was a member of the Council of Education Facilities Planners (CEFPI) and selected as “Planner of the Year 2002” and a member of the original dozen “CEFPI Fellows 2012”. Each year, the Northeast Region of CEFPI (now A4LE) bestows the “Edward Kirkbride Award” on a school that demonstrates exceptional design. Ed’s architectural works throughout the Tri-State area included numerous schools, churches, and renovation projects. Upon retirement, Ed’s interests focused on ‘Future Thinking’ and children in grades PreK through 9 and how they learn.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the excellent, compassionate care Ed received from Grane Hospice, Legend of Lancaster, and all the health care providers who lovingly saw to his needs.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Autism Society of America.

Interment will be private.