Ria Dianne Kirk, 86, of Carbondale passed away December 25, 2021. Dianne had a kind and gentle manner and a spunky spirit, unashamed to offer a little sass along with laughter everywhere she went. She was an exceptional seamstress and loved to make clothing as well as crafts. She was fond of nature, often remarking that trees must have been one of God’s favorite things to create. She especially loved watching the cardinals and blue birds in her yard.
Dianne was born January 12, 1935 in Cobden, Illinois, the daughter of the late Van Anderson and Mabel Humphrey.
She married James Albert Kirk on November 20, 1957 in Herrin, Illinois. They shared over 55 years of marriage till his passing on April 25, 2012. She worked alongside him, as he owned and operated Horstman’s Cleaners in Carbondale for many years.
Dianne is survived by her children; Kathie Ann (Mike) Lorentz of Makanda, George Alan Kirk of Baton Rouge, La; and Jon Paul (Alison) Kirk of Carbondale; grandchildren; Gregory Lorentz of Carterville; Danielle Lorentz of Carbondale; Paige Rose Kirk of Carbondale; great-grandchildren; Cameron Michael Lingafelter and Lillian Michelle Lorentz of Carterville.
She is preceded in death by her parents Van Anderson and Mabel Humphrey, grandson Sean James Kirk, and brother Bonnie Anderson.
Graveside services will be private and determined at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Dianne has requested donations be sent to either Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation: 3800 Park Avenue, St. Louis, Mo 63110, or St. Jude Tribute Program: P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142.
Walker Funeral Home of Carbondale entrusted with arrangements.
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FERN PALMER says
January 4, 2022 at 7:04 pmDear Jon & Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. I loved being greeted by her whenever going through the drive up window at the cleaners. Your mom always put a smile on my face. Mrs. Kirk was one of the kindest & sweetest ladies in Carbondale. My heart breaks for you all. I know as hard as this is , there is comfort in knowing she is with your dad again and they are watching over all of their children & grandkids. You all have 2 wonderful angels watching your backs. Your mom will be missed by so many. God Bless you all. Love Fern & John
Jeff Lee says
January 5, 2022 at 1:27 amI am very sorry for your loss Kathy, Alan, and Jon. She was a very kind person and good neighbor, and a good friend to my mom over the years.