Velma Kirk

Velma Baker Kirk, age 87 of Memphis, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, March 13, 2019.

The wife of Wilbert Eugene Kirk, who preceded her in death, enjoyed a loving marriage of over 62 years. Velma was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandma. She was a homemaker and worked part-time with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department where she was a school crossing guard for over 42 years.

She was born September 25, 1931 in Hardeman County, son of the late Edgar and Maude West Baker. She married Wilbert Kirk on June 27, 1953 and moved to Memphis where they remained. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, and gardening. She loved doing everything with her husband and being around family. She loved going to church and enjoyed teaching Sunday School for many years. Ms. Kirk was a member of Faith Baptist Church in Bartlett.

Survivors include a daughter, Vickie (David) Wong of Lakeland, TN; a son, Gary (Susie) Kirk of Knoxville, TN; a sister, Frances (Frank) Bell of Middleton; five grandchildren, Michael (Valerie) Wong, Rachel (Peter) Green, Katelyn (Corey) Dantzler, Lauren Kirk, Grayson Kirk; three great-grandchildren, Brady and Morgan Wong, Dakota Green, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Thelma Wray and a brother, Edward Baker.

Charitable contributions made in Mrs. Kirk's memory may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/donate) or the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org/donate).