Earl “Speedy” Wayne Kimbrel Sr.

Earl “Speedy” Wayne Kimbrel Sr., age 86, of Dadeville, Alabama, passed away at his home on April 23, 2026 surrounded by his children and grandchildren.

Speedy Kimbrel was born on May 12, 1939, in Bessmer, Alabama to Earl Clayton Kimbrel and Dorothy Farley Kimbrel. He lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service to others.

Speedy was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. A talented builder and skilled handyman, he built his family’s home with his own hands—a testament to his dedication and craftsmanship. He devoted more than 25 years of service to Uniroyal Michelin Tire Company until his retirement. In addition to his long career there, Speedy fulfilled his entrepreneurial spirit by starting and operating Speedy’s Catfish & Bar-B-Que, a beloved restaurant that faithfully served loyal customers for over 10 years.

Speedy was a man of deep and abiding faith who guided his life by example. He believed in treating others with kindness and respect, never judging or looking down on anyone. Instead, he accepted people just as they were, offering compassion, understanding, and encouragement to all who crossed his path.

He was known for his strong work ethic and the value he placed on hard work and integrity. Throughout his life, Speedy served others selflessly, always willing to lend a hand or offer support wherever it was needed.

Above all, Speedy loved his family unconditionally. He was a constant presence in their lives. He was steadfast, supportive, and devoted. His love was evident in both his words and his actions, and he leaves behind a legacy of strength, faith, and unwavering commitment to those he loved most.

Speedy’s life was an inspiration to all who knew him. His example of humility, kindness, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Speedy is survived by his sons Earl Wayne Kimbrel, Jr. and Micheal East; his daughters, Wanda Kimbrel Peppers (Danny) and Susan Kimbrel Hawkins; his granddaughters, Kristy Kimbrel Teaster (Michael), Kelly Kimbrel Evers (Matt), Victoria Peppers Gulledge (Will), Kerra Hawkins Betts (Braxton), Katherine Hawkins Funderburk (Jordan) and Niki East; his great-grandchildren Audrey Teaster, Clayton Teaster, Kamden Evers (Lillie), Kole Evers, Katelyn Evers, Mason Evers, Matthew Evers, Sophia Gulldege, Camilla Gulledge, Tommy Funderburk and Tyler East; his sisters Norma Pike Andrews, Joyce Ann Coker, Joan Kimbrel Ellington (Sandy) and Dorothy DeanValdes (Paul); his sisters-in-law Linda Joyce Baker (Lewis) and Barbara Ann Kimbrel; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Speedy was preceded in death by his parents Clayton and Dorothy Kimbrel; his wife of 52 years, Dorothy Kate Kimbrel; his second wife Judy Brown Kimbrel; his brothers Bobby Kimbrel and Jack Nelson Kimbrel; his sister Margaret Rachel Baker.

A service will be held at Lake Martin Funeral Home Monday April 27th at 2:00 p.m. with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Tallapoosa County Memory Gardens.