Thelma Kirk Obituary

Thelma Louise Kirk

August 1, 1928 -

February 23, 2026

KINGSPORT - Thelma Louise Kirk, age 97, of Kingsport, Tennessee, went to be home with the Lord on February 23, 2026.

Born August 1, 1928, Louise was the daughter of the late John Wesley Edens and Elizabeth Belcher Edens in Roaring Fork, Virginia. She was the last survivor of 17 siblings in the Edens family.

Louise spent most of her years in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and later moved to Kingsport, Tennessee. She has spent the last 11 years at American House Kingsport.

Louise was known for her deep devotion to God and a passion for the Bible. She faithfully served as a member of West End Baptist Church in Big Stone Gap, and later at Higher Ground Baptist in Kingsport. She taught the Bible in church, and she was truly a prayer warrior. She was always concerned with the needs and welfare of others and helped people wherever she could.

Louise was an extraordinary woman who led a remarkable life of strength and character. She was much loved by her family and friends, and she touched many lives with her kindness, warmth, selflessness, and caring spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of immense faith and love.

In addition to her parents and siblings, she is preceded in death by her husband, John W. Kirk, Jr. Surviving are daughters who cherished her: Jayne Hancock (Kirby) and Teresa Reynolds (Mike). Grandchildren are Payton Medlin (David), Christi Hess, Kevin Shupe (Tonya), Charlie Reynolds (Tonda), Carla Anderson (Jonathan), and Jade Fuqua (Ed). Louise leaves behind a number of great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at American House Kingsport, and appreciation to the visiting nurses from Amedisys Hospice.

Relatives and friends are invited to the visitation at Oak Hill Funeral Home at 1:00 pm Saturday, February 28, 2026. Funeral service will be at 2:00 pm. Graveside service will follow at Riverview Cemetery in East Stone Gap, Virginia.

Louise will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

To share memories and condolences with the family, please visit www.oakhillfh.com.

The care of Thelma Louise Kirk and his family have been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.