Obituary of Julia Ann Lovvorn Kirby

Graveside services for Julia Ann Lovvorn Kirby, age 92, of Newell will be held on Sunday, July 17, 2022, at 2:00 PM at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Terry Eason officiating and Benefield Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Kirby was born on December 1, 1929, in Graham, Alabama, and passed away surrounded by loved ones at her home in Newell on Friday, July 15, 2022.  She was preceded in death by her husband, James Ray Kirby; her parents, Handley and Eura Johnson Lovvorn; and her sister, Polly Anderson.

Survivors include her children, Peggy (George) Dyar and Ouida (William) Webb, both of Opelika, Paul Kirby of Newell; loving children, Susan Anderson, Keith Anderson, and Lori (Chris) Champion; and brother, Fred Lovvorn of Wetumpka.  She was blessed with eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren and was affectionately called “Nana” by her family and many of her friends.

Pallbearers will be Thomas Kirby, Derrick Knight, George Dyar, Blake Champion, Chris Champion, and David Dyar.

Mrs. Kirby was a graduate of Woodland High School and was an active member of Antioch Baptist Church until age and health slowed her down.  She loved singing and playing the piano and organ both at home and at church.  Mr. and Mrs. Kirby enjoyed the opportunity to travel and visit many of our states as well as countries around the world.  Her favorite vacation spot was Hawaii where she declared that “her happiness overflowed at the sight of God’s handiwork.”

The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Compassus Hospice and to special caregiver Jeanette Houston for the love, support and care they provided for Mrs. Kirby.

One of her favorite quotes was “Death is not extinguishing the light; it is putting out the lamp, because the dawn has come.”  Author Unknown.

Due to the recent upsurge of Covid, the family respectfully requests that anyone who is feeling ill or may have been recently exposed, to please send a note or card or express your condolence online at www.benefieldfhwedowee.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Antioch Baptist Church, 2748 County Road 134, Newell, AL 36280.