Ava

Lauraette Ava Kirk, of Wooster, OH known lovingly as Ava, was called to her heavenly home on September 2, 2023, after a valiant battle with complications from diabetes. Born on November 5, 1962, in Huntington, WV, Ava was a beacon of love, faith, and optimism that shone brightly throughout her 60 years on Earth.

Ava was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and great-aunt. She was preceded in death by her father, Beecher Kirk, and her mother, Ava Kirk, both of Orrville, OH, as well as her cherished grandparents, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Ava's legacy of love and faith survives in her brothers Mason Kirk, Donis and Linda (Matz) Kirk, Danny and Barb (Jones) Kirk, Dana and Julie (Moore) Kirk,  her sister Robin Kirk, and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who all held a special place in her heart.

Ava was a 1982 graduate of Orrville High School and furthered her education at Ohio Valley College in Parkersburg, WV from 1984 to 1986. Her work ethic was evident in her many years of service at Michael's Bakery and McDonald's. However, her most significant role was her selfless commitment to care for her mother for thirteen years after the passing of her father.

Ava's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She accepted Christ at the tender age of 17 and served Him faithfully throughout her life. Her faith was not just spoken but lived. Ava was a beloved member of the Wooster Nazarene Church, where she lifted her voice in praise as part of the Worship Team. She extended her faith beyond the church walls, participating in several volunteer mission trips with the After The Storm ministries.

Ava held a special love for her family. She played a crucial role in raising her niece Sarah Witten and nephew Simeon Witten, alongside their mother and her sister, Robin. Her love and guidance were instrumental in shaping their lives, and her influence will continue to echo in their hearts forever.

Ava was a woman of exceptional strength, boundless love, and unwavering faith. Her optimism in the face of adversity was an inspiration to all who knew her. She was the embodiment of the quote by Corrie Ten Boom, "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God." Indeed, Ava lived her life trusting in God, and her faith never wavered, even in the face of her health challenges.

In the words of a southern preacher, Ava was a woman who walked the walk and talked the talk. She was a testament to the power of faith, love, and perseverance. Her legacy is not one of sorrow, but of joy and faith. She lived her life as a testament to her faith, showing us all the power of love, the strength of faith, and the joy of serving others.

As we mourn the loss of our beloved Ava, let us also celebrate her life and the love, faith, and optimism she brought into our lives. Let us remember her as a woman who loved deeply, served faithfully, and trusted in God wholeheartedly. Her life was a testament to the power of faith and the strength of the human spirit, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Fly high, Ava. You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. Now there is in store for you the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to you on that day.

A Celebration of Life Memorial will be held for Ava at 1:00 pm on September 23, 2023 at Orrville Christian Church, 925 N. Elm Street, Orrville, OH 44667.

Visitation will be from Noon until 1:00pm. Service from 1pm - 2pm.

Flowers can be sent to the Orrville Christian Church, 925 N. Elm Street, Orrville, OH 44667.

A memorial contribution in Ava's name is preferred to help offset funeral expenses. They can be made by calling Arielle Fouts at Leaf Cremation of Ohio "614-961-4200"