Leona Perry Kirtley, from Adger, Al. (near Lock 17 on Warrior River) passed away on March 29,2017 at the age of 94 years old. She was born in Birmingham, Alabama; and married to Robert H. Kirtley Sr. for 57 years. Leona was very involved in the sport of water skiing most of her life. She and her husband could be considered pioneers of the sport beginning in late 1930's by making their own skis and modifying engines that were too weak at the time to pull skiers. She raised two champion skiers Bobby and Janelle Kirtley; of which Janelle accomplished national and world titles. Mrs. Kirtley maintained her dedication to the sport of water skiing by judging local, regional, and national tournaments through 2005 where she was chief judge of the Southern Regionals. Leona was also commited to the Garden Club of Alabama for over 40 years of which she served as President form 1985-1987. She was faithful Christian and devoted member of New Providence Baptist church since 1974 where she played the organ every Sunday she wasn't at a ski tournament until recently. She is survived by her son Robert H. Kirtley Jr. (Bobby), and her daughter Jane Ellen Godfrey (Janelle), their spouses, 5 grandsons, 6 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. She was the epitome of a Southern Belle with all the grace and charm of a true noble; combined with the work ethic of Christmas elf. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her. The funeral services will be held at Bell Funeral Home 2077 Pratt Highway Birmingham, Al. 35214 on Monday 04/03/2017 at 12:00 Noon with burial service at Forest Hill Cemetery 431 60th Street Birmingham, Al. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.