Bobby Dallas Kirk, age 92, of Nolensville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025. He was born on November 15, 1932, in Pocahontas, Tennessee, to the late Vernie Kirk and Velma Carlin Kirk.

Bobby grew up in McNairy County and attended Selmer High School, where he quickly became known for his athletic ability and leadership. He played wide receiver for the football team, was a standout baseball player, and served as captain of the basketball team. In 1952, he and his teammates won the Selmer State Championship, and Bobby was named both the Tournament MVP and All-State Tournament Team.

After high school, Bobby enrolled at the University of Tennessee at Martin, where he excelled on the college basketball team. A four-year starter, he set records in scoring and free throws during his career. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture.

Following college, Bobby proudly served his country, enlisting in the United States Army as a medic. He spent 1.5 years in service during the Korean War. After returning home, he began working for Tenneco. It was during this time that fate intervened-while passing a beauty salon one day, Bobby noticed a young woman working inside. He pointed to his finger and asked if she was married. That woman was Bettye Sue Turnbow, and that simple moment began a love story that lasted a lifetime. Bobby and Bettye Sue married on February 20, 1959, and shared 65 years together until her passing in 2024.

Bobby loved his family immensely and was a true family man. He worshiped the ground his wife walked on, and together they built a home filled with love and laughter. He did whatever he had to do to be present for his children and grandchildren, never missing a ball game, no matter where it was played. He was a jokester at heart – just ask his family about his dirty Santa gifts at Christmas. His devotion to his family was unwavering and was at the very heart of who he was.

His life also reflected his passion for sports and community. He coached many of his children’s ball teams, umpired Little League baseball, and refereed school basketball games. His reputation as a fair and respected official led to the great honor of being nominated to referee at the State Tournament-an accomplishment few achieve.

A lifelong sports fan, Bobby’s passion extended beyond the field and court. He was a devoted Tennessee Vols football supporter and a loyal follower of the Tennessee Lady Vols, faithfully attending games and traveling to the SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament for over 30 years. He also enjoyed cheering for the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, Dallas Cowboys, and was an avid NASCAR fan, attending many races throughout his life.

More than his love of sports, Bobby was devoted to his faith. He was a faithful member of Woodson Chapel Church of Christ, rarely missing a service. His family recalls that they never saw him mad or heard him raise his voice. His gentle demeanor, kindness, and steady spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His life was a testimony to the faith he lived by and the love he poured into his family and community.

As his family shared: “When you knew my dad and his loving, kind, gentle, and compassionate heart, you saw Jesus.”

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Vernie and Velma Carlin Kirk; his beloved wife of 65 years, Bettye Sue Kirk; his twin brother, Bill Kirk; and his brothers Pete Kirk and Lawrence Kirk.

He is survived by his children: Tim (Carla) Kirk of Killen, AL; Kim Kirk (Sharon Garrett) of Albertville, AL; Pam (Gary) Hyde of Lawrenceburg, TN; and Tammye Kirk Lawler of Nolensville, TN. He is also survived by his sister, Inez (Kenneth) Hawkins of Selmer, TN; eight grandchildren: Ashleigh Richmond, Kelsey Hardison, Noelle Lawler, Kelli Kemp, Kirk Kemp, Christian Kirk, Madison Carman, and Aliyah Lawler; five great-grandchildren: Aubrey, DJ, Weston, Ayla, and Ace; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services only, and burial was on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the Swiss Cemetery in Hohenwald, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to: The Pat Summit Foundation. https://patsummitt.org/get-involved/contribute/

McDonald Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Kirk family.