Lillian Badgett Kirkman

Mrs. Lillian Badgett Kirkman, of Mount Airy, departed this life on Sunday evening, November 3, 2024, at the remarkable age of 102. Mrs. Kirkman was born March 31, 1922, in Surry County, the youngest of three children born to the late Edgar Grover and Ida Savannah Jane Canter Badgett. Lillian witnessed more than a century of history, enduring and adapting through times of monumental change, yet always with a spirit of optimism and strength. A woman of deep faith, she was known for her unwavering devotion to her family and her community. She was an active member of First Baptist Church for many years, offering support, kindness, and wisdom to those around her. Prior to her retirement, Lillian worked as a deputy at the Surry County Register of Deeds office, where she built lasting relationships and earned the respect of those she worked with. Her dedication and work ethic were a testament to her character, and she often spoke fondly of the friendships she made during this time. Later in life, she devoted herself to her family, taking great joy in being a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, and friend. She truly lived a life filled with grace, resilience, and compassion, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Trinette “Jiskje” Haverkamp Kirkman; two nieces, Martha Hall and Mary Badgett; and many other relatives, including her late husband’s family. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Kirkman was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Kirkman; her son, Joseph Roy “Joe” Kirkman; her sister and brother-in-law, Evelyn and Roger Gardner; her brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Faye Badgett; three nieces, Judy Childress, Paula Hamlin, and Linda Hawks; and two nephews, Johnny Gardner and Jack Gardner. A graveside service will be held Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Oakdale Cemetery, with Dr. Roger B. Gilbert officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 10:00 until 10:30 AM at Moody Funeral Home in Mount Airy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Joseph Roy Kirkman Memorial Scholarship, Surry Community College Foundation, 630 South Main Street, Dobson, NC 27017, to be designated for a deserving student who is planning to enter the teaching profession.