Tamarius Clay Kirk

Tamarius Clay Kirk was born August 20, 1990, to Marvin Kirk and Brenda Nash in Dyersburg TN. He was a very loving but mischievous toddler. He and his big sister found much entertainment playing practical jokes on each other and finding that one thing that would immensely annoy the other one. A story was told about an instance where his big sister got a brand-new waterbed, and he decided that the heater should be turned off, yes, in the middle of Winter! The two shared a unique bond and loved each other to no end, however. Their 11-year age difference never faltered their relationship, but only made them closer. Tamarius found his way into the hearts of many individuals he encountered throughout his life. Tamarius, known as “T” or “T-Man,” was an avid lover of T-U-R-T-L-E POWER during his childhood. Yes, you know it as, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! He could be heard repeating lines to the shows, wielding plastic swords, and imitating Kung-Fu often. He also could also be heard reciting “Go Go Power Rangers.” There was no stopping his love for these two famous animated shows!! Nickelodeon was also one of his favorite stations. Rugrats and Hey Arnold were two of his shows of choice. He spent much of his time outdoors, riding his bike with the boys as he matured. He loved the outdoors. He was no stranger to mud and dirt. Just ask his Mama! As he aged, he also developed a love of fishing and could be found at his favorite fishing ponds reelin’ in dinner. He also found joy in video gaming and sports. Go Pack Go, was no strange language to him. He also became a fantastic cook and loved to share his love for food with others. His late Granny nick- named him “Whimpy” because of his love for burgers!  

 He attended Dyersburg School System during his school years and graduated in May 2010 from Dyersburg High School, despite some struggles with his health. He gained many memorable friendships during that time. Anywhere one went and mentioned the name “T,” he was known and loved. 

“T” had a love for God and His Creation. He often gave himself to service to others. There was never a task that he turned down. He only ever wanted to make sure that those around him were safe and happy. One of those individuals was his Mama, whom he loved as big and wide as the sky.  

He also had a deep love for animals, specifically dogs. Any pet he owned was given the utmost care. He never could stand to see any animal in distress. He would do his best to find homes for any that were lost, and comfort for those that needed them.  He would have kept each of them for himself, had he been able.  

He started his own lawn business eventually and put his all into the care attendance of the lawns of his customers. He poured all his effort into making sure that he managed his business with dignity. He continued this journey even after he experienced an accident in 2020, which revealed an illness that would change his life drastically. He was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (Stage 4). Though this new diagnosis came as a shock to “T”, he never lost hope or faith. In fact, he enrolled in TCAT Newbern to pursue a career in Computer Information Technology and worked very diligently to keep his grades above average, despite chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and a host of complications secondary to his diagnosis. And when “T” was asked how he was doing, he always responded “I am good, I am fantastic!” His classmates, co-workers, and family can all attest to his beautiful battle. He never once felt sorry for himself or allowed others to do so. He fought with honor. He later graduated from TCAT Newbern with honors in Computer Information Technology in December 2022 and remained employed as a Dual Enrollment/Public Information Recruitment Specialist. He was loved very much by his classmates and co-workers. He was adored by all who knew him at the school and was called “The face of TCAT.” 

On April 24, 2023, “T” bravely laid down the sword of his courageous battle. He bid farewell to this life and his precious spirit was returned to God who gave it.  He leaves to mourn his transition, his Mother and caregiver Brenda Nash (Newbern, TN), Father, Marvin Kirk (Memphis, TN),  Big Sister, Destiny Cunningham (Beloit, WI), beloved Aunts, Kathy Robertson (Newbern, TN), Bridgette Kirk (Dyersburg, TN), Mary Elizabeth Mastin (Elyria, OH), and Gwendoyln Kirk, (Dallas, TX). Uncles; Jimmy Lee Jones (Nashville, TN), Jeffery Kirk (Washington), and Bobby Kirk (Killeen, TX).  Nieces; Aliyah Moberg (Union City, TN) and Dejah Moberg (Beloit, WI). Cousins; Ja-Juan Swift (Memphis, TN), Ra’mon Robertson (Obion, TN), Jessica Moody (Dallas, TX) and Darnisha Edwards (California). He also leaves to mourn his transition a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and co-workers whose lives he impacted deeply. He often adopted family members throughout his life and each of you was very precious to him.  

He was proceeded in death by his grandparents (both paternal and maternal) Jessie “J.C” Kirk, Lizzie Mae Kirk, Jesse Williard “Son” Jones, and Mary Lue Jones.  

A Celebration of Tamarius’s life will be at 1:00 p.m. May 3, 2023, at Johnson-Williams Funeral Home in Newbern, TN; officiated by Bro. Terrance Mannis.  Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. and will continue until the time of service. Interment will take place at MCCO Cemetery in Newbern, TN following services. Pall Bearers will be as follows: Daniel Taylor, Tommy Kindle, Justin Wesley, Corey Watson, Mike Vaughn, and Robert Davis. Honorary Pall Bearer will be Skylar Gandy (Valdosta, Georgia), a special long-time friend of Tamarius. 

The family of Tamarius Kirk would like to offer their sincere appreciation for your prayers, love, and encouragement during this difficult time.  

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27 

Online condolences may be made to the family at johnsonwilliamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Tamarius Clay Kirk. 

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