Mattie Sue Kirk

Mattie Sue Kirk was born October 9, 1948 in McNairy County, TN the daughter of the late Jessie Eugene Foster and Thelma Christine Lacefield Foster. Mrs. Kirk, lovingly known as “Mam” to her close family and friends, passed away peacefully at her home in Oakland, Tennessee, on May 21, 2025 with her beloved family member at her bedside.

As a child, Mattie Sue was raised with a strong work ethic and deep-rooted family values. During her formative years, she balanced the demands of school with responsibilities on the family farm and in the fields. A gifted athlete, she played basketball all four years at Ramer High School before graduating in 1966.

In 1967, she married the love of her life, Jerry Neal Kirk, and was blessed with one daughter, Melissa Rena' (Kirk) Carnagey in 1968. Together, the couple built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion that spanned more than five decades.

Mrs. Kirk worked for thirteen years as a cosmetologist—a profession that aligned perfectly with her lifelong enjoyment of makeup, beauty, and personal care. She took great pride in “primping,” always presenting herself with grace and elegance.

In 1983, she answered a deeper calling to care for others and became a registered nurse. With compassion and strength, she served patients and their families until her retirement in 2003, retiring alongside her beloved husband.

A woman of warmth and light, Mrs. Kirk was known for her kind heart, positive spirit, and genuine love for those around her. She found joy in simple pleasures—bowling, puzzling, knitting, and reading her favorite Stephen King novels—but nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with her family. Her love for them was deep and unconditional, and she was a source of strength, comfort, and joy to all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband Jerry Kirk of Oakland, TN; one brother, Thomas Dewey Foster and wife Glenda of Ramer, TN, two grandchildren, Brittney Monk and Kayla Carnagey, 3 great grandchildren, Madison Carnagey, Emery Smith and Daxton Monk, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Mattie Sue was preceded in death by her daughter, Melissa Rena' Carnagey, two brothers Roger Dale Foster and Jesse Franklin Foster, and two sisters, Mary Lou Gable and Erma Jean Lamay.

Mrs. Kirk’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and resilience. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.