Community Mourns the Passing of John Paul Kirk at 94

John Paul Kirk, Sr., a cherished husband, father, and community leader, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, at the age of 94. Surrounded by his loving family, including his wife of 73 years, Alice Kirk, and their children and grandchildren, Kirk’s legacy of service and devotion will be deeply missed.

Born on March 14, 1931, in Ashland, Alabama, John was the youngest of Daniel P. and Clara I. Kirk’s eleven children. He maintained strong ties with his family throughout his life, frequently visiting his hometown and nurturing relationships with his siblings, their families, and lifelong friends. Kirk graduated from Clay County High School in 1949, and shortly thereafter enlisted in the Army Air Corps, now known as the Air Force.

During his time in the Air Force, Kirk was stationed at Amarillo Air Force Base, where he taught aircraft electronics. It was here that he met Alice, and the couple married on December 27, 1952. They welcomed three children: John, Jr., Kathy, and Rebecca, who would eventually bless them with ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, with another on the way in January 2026.

After moving to Atlanta, Kirk earned an associate degree at Southern Technical College. Later in life, he returned to education, achieving a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle University at the age of 76. His passion for flying began in Texas, and although he did not obtain his pilot’s license until later, he cherished many adventures in the sky, including taking Alice on her first flight.

Following his military service, Kirk embarked on a career in financial planning, starting with an oil company. He and Alice spent several years in Bogotá, Colombia, where they formed lifelong friendships. Upon returning to the United States, they settled in Torrance, California, where Kirk founded a successful investment and financial planning firm, retiring after more than 50 years in the industry.

Kirk’s commitment to community service was evident in his extensive involvement with numerous organizations. He served as a member and president of the South Bay Sunrise Rotary Club, participated in Toastmasters International, and held various leadership roles with organizations like The Arc South Bay and the Torrance YMCA. His dedication to the First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach, where he became a member in 1961, included chairing boards and committees and establishing the church’s endowment fund.

John Paul Kirk is survived by his wife, Alice, and their children: John Kirk (Mindy), Kathy McCandless (Richard), and Rebecca Kirk. He leaves behind ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, along with numerous nephews and nieces who will carry on his legacy of love and service.

A memorial service honoring Kirk’s life will take place at 11:00 AM on January 10, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church, located at 243 S. Broadway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277. The community is invited to join in celebrating the life of a remarkable man whose impact will not be forgotten.