R. Stephen Kirk, age 87, of Independence, VA, the Fox Creek Community, passed away on September 16, 2022, at the Northern Regional Medical Center in Mt. Airy, NC. He was born on June 30, 1935, in Galax, VA to Roy Schley and Lenna Hash Kirk.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Sutherland Kirk, a sister, Jessie Lee Kirk; and a brother, Jack Phipps.

"Dad", "Pops," "PawPaw", "Ole Man Kirk," and Steve are just a few names that were given to R. Stephen Kirk.  He was a dedicated farmer his entire life.  He spent time raising dairy cattle, beef cattle, and sheep.  He raised, tobacco, corn, hay and much more.  Farming is a lifestyle, and he took great pride in it.  He also served in the United States Army and considered it an honor to serve his country.  He made numerous friends in the Army with whom he remained in touch.  He especially remembered "Morgan from Oregon," as he said, from Oregon state.  He retained his ties with the military by serving on the Grayson VFW Post #7726 Honor Guard.

While he considered the titles of "Veteran" and "farmer" to be important, he mostly cherished the titles of "Dad," "Pops," and "PawPaw".  He was everything a person could ask for in a Dad and Grandfather.  Every Sunday morning, without fail, he fixed breakfast for all the men in the family.  He kept lemonade in the fridge for his granddaughter, Maggie, who wouldn't drink coke.  However, he always kept the glass bottles of coca colas cold for his other grandchildren, Kalynn, Beth, Cody and Scott.  He never stopped raising his sons, Russ and Kevin.  He was so proud of them celebrating their accomplishments and them continuing the farming tradition that he had instilled in them.  He shared an equal love for his daughters-in-law, Becky and Alyce.  They were like his own and he always appreciated all they did for him.

Steve could make anyone laugh and was famous for his stories and witty sayings.  He was a legend in the community and every person who was fortunate enough to know him will miss him terribly.  But, for those of us who got to call him "Dad, Pops, or PawPaw," our lives will never be the same.

He is survived by his two sons, Russ and Alyce Kirk of Mouth of Wilson, VA, and Kevin and Becky Kirk of Independence, VA; five grandchildren, Kalynn Kirk of Independence, VA, Beth and Worth Carrico of Independence, VA, Cody Kirk of Independence, VA, Maggie Kirk of Mouth of Wilson, VA, and Scott Kirk of Mouth of Wilson, VA; a special friend, Glenna Russell of Troutdale, VA.

Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, September 19, 2022, at 2:00 PM at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home chapel with speakers, Shawn Rector and Brian Billings.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Fox Creek Cemetery with military honors conducted by Grayson VFW Post #7726.

Flowers are appreciated or memorial contributions may be made to the Fox Creek Cemetery c/o Joyce Phipps 1852 Maple Road Independence, VA 24348.