Willie B. Kirk

Willie B. Kirk passed this life on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was born in Tipton County, TN, on January 16, 1934, to Bolden and Roberta Bell Jones.
She married Albert V. Kirk, and to this union were born nine children: Jerry Kirk of Memphis, TN, Jeannette (John) Saunders of Joshua, TX, Joan West of Rantoul, IL, Berdia (Ronald) Payne of Georgetown, IL, Richard Kirk of Rantoul, IL, Regina (Ray) Isaac of Cedar Rapids, IA, the late Karl Kirk, Charlotte (Jerry) Worthington of Dallas, TX and Karen McCracken of Cincinnati, OH. After her divorce, she moved to Danville, IL, where she raised eight children.
Ms. Willie was employed for many years as a housekeeper at Lakeview Hospital, then as a hot tank operator at Peterson Puritan Company, both in Danville, IL, until her retirement in 1999. In the early years of retirement, she enjoyed traveling to visit her grandbabies and to Chicago Cubs games; she was a true fan. In her later years, she enjoyed listening to gospel music, sewing beautiful handmade quilts, and doing word search puzzles. She loved the Lord and always said to ‘Live with your hands open, giving to others.’ She lived by those words as she was generous and kind to everyone.
To cherish her memory, in addition to her eight children, she leaves 28 grandchildren, 68 great-grandchildren, and 17 great-great- grandchildren. She also raised three special nephews, the late Ozell Williams Jr. of Danville, James (T-man) Williams (Darlene) of Rochester, WA, and George E. McCain of Memphis, TN. She will also be missed by a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
Her son, Karl Kirk, and nephew, Ozell Williams Jr, preceded her in death.
To God be the glory for all the wonderful things He has done in the life of this beautiful, strong, and resilient woman.

A  homegoing celebration will commence at 11:00 am July 22, 2023 at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church 311 N. Collett St., Danville.  Eulogist: Rev. Katrese Kirk- McKenzie. A visitation will begin at 10:00 am until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Springhill Cemetery.

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