GAP MILL, WV --- Russell Olden Kirk, age 87, of Gap Mils, WV, passed away Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at the Mulberry Creek Nursing and Rehab Center in Martinsville, VA. Born August 22, 1933 at Gap Mills, WV, he was the son of the late Herman Andrew and Lucy Myrthe Humphries Kirk. Russell earned the nick name "Happy Jack" when he was a child due to the fact, he was always a happy go lucky guy. He was a lifelong farmer and worked for a while at the B.F. Goodrich Plant at Pickaway. He loved to joke with people. He also enjoyed NASCAR races and was a big fan of Jimmy Johnson. Russell loved the outdoors. He like to cut wood with his chainsaw and ride around on his mower. He also enjoyed old country music and he liked to watch the Grand Ole Opry, Hee Haw, and the Porter Wagner Show. Often, he would set on his porch listening to his bluegrass tapes and CDs. Russell loved his family dearly. He was a wonderful uncle, stepdad, grandpa, and companion for our mom, Jean Clarkson. He especially loved his grandchildren and his great-granddaughter. He loved all children and they loved him as well. Even children he didn't know would often come right up to him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving companion, Jean Clarkson; siblings, Lawrence Kirk, Violet Dowdy, Rose Walker, James Kirk, Robert Lee Kirk, Ella Mae Ripley, Lowell Kirk, Hamp Kirk, Buddy Kirk, Kathelene Kirk, and Clarabell McMillion. Survivors include, two stepdaughters, Peggy Jewel and husband Matt of Roanoke, VA, and Patty Carter and husband Tim of Matthews, NC; three grandchildren, Ashley Duemmler and husband Kai of Raleigh, NC; Morgan Carter of Charlotte, NC, and Cierra McDaniel and husband Jared of Phoenix, AZ; one great-granddaughter, Aria McDaniel of Phoenix, AZ;  one brother-in-law, Tommy Walker of Covington, VA; three sister-in-laws, Donna Kirk of Union, WV, Roslie Kirk of Fairlea, WV, and Tina Kirk of Baltimore Maryland;  and several nieces and nephews.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and out of love and respect for the family and friends, the services for Russell will be private and for immediate family only. Matt Jewell, Wayne Dowdy, Kevin Robertson, Greg McMillion, Jeff McMillion, and Steve Kirk will serve as Pallbearers. For those who would like to leave the Kirk Family online condolences or sign the online guestbook please visit www.groves-mann.com Arrangements by Groves-Mann Funeral Home in Union, WV.