Community Honors the Life and Legacy of Barbara Stevens Kirkham in Hopkinsville

Remembering Barbara Stevens Kirkham: A Life Well-Lived in Hopkinsville

Hopkinsville, Kentucky, bids farewell to a beloved member of its community, Barbara Stevens Kirkham, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. Surrounded by her loving family at Abe’s Garden in Nashville, Barbara leaves behind a legacy filled with warmth, kindness, and a spirit of giving.

A Loving Wife and Doting Mother

Barbara was the devoted wife of the late John P. Kirkham, with whom she spent a glorious 60 years. Most of their life together was spent in the charming town of Hopkinsville, where they built a beautiful family and created countless cherished memories.

Born on November 15, 1933, in Lexington, Kentucky, Barbara came from a loving family, the daughter of Henry and Loree Stevens. She had two siblings, Henry Stevens Jr. and Betty Smith, with whom she shared a close bond. She graduated from Henry Clay High School in 1952 and continued her education at the University of Kentucky, where she graduated in 1956 and joined the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. Her heart forever belonged to the Kentucky Wildcats, a love she passed down through generations.

Beloved Educator

Barbara dedicated an impressive 42 years to the field of education, with most of her career spent as a first-grade teacher at Millbrooke Elementary School in Hopkinsville. Even after her retirement, Barbara’s impact on her students was evident as many recognized her around town and spoke fondly of their experiences in her classroom. She enjoyed nurturing young minds and shaping the future, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.

Her passion for education didn’t end in the classroom. Barbara was a long-standing member of Grace Episcopal Church, where she selflessly led the kindergarten program for ten years following her retirement. Her love for children and teaching remained a constant throughout her life.

A Heart for Animals and Community

Barbara’s compassion extended well beyond just her human students. She was instrumental in founding the Christian County Humane Society and later became a dedicated volunteer with Max’s Hope Rescue. Known for her deep love of animals, Barbara was a fierce advocate for animal welfare, often caring for and adopting strays, giving them a loving home.

Southern Hospitality and Family Traditions

With her renowned Southern hospitality, Barbara hosted annual Derby Day parties in her beautifully manicured backyard, where friends and family would gather to celebrate. Thanksgiving was a special occasion, marked by her famous dumplings—a treasured family recipe passed down from her sister, Betty. These gatherings created lasting memories and brought everyone together.

Barbara was affectionately called “Mama K” by her grandchildren, who adored their summers spent at “Camp Kirkham.” Those days were filled with laughter, fun, and the warm embrace of a grandmother who loved them deeply.

Survived by Family

Barbara is survived by her two sons, Steven (Lisa) and Mark (Lea), and her beloved grandchildren, Jake and Sara (children of Steven) and Hayden and Hannah (children of Mark). She is also survived by her sister-in-law and lifelong friend, Karen Stevens. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, John, and her siblings, Henry Stevens Jr. and Betty Smith, as well as her brother-in-law, Duke Smith.

Final Farewell

Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 27, 2024, at Grace Episcopal Church in Hopkinsville, KY. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral hour. Following the service, graveside services will follow on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. (EST) at The Lexington Cemetery in Lexington, KY, where she will be laid to rest beside her loving husband and family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Max’s Hope Rescue, a charity that Barbara cherished deeply. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, reminding us of the love, compassion, and joy she shared throughout her incredible life.