Dorothy Kirkwood Obituary

Dorothy Kellum Kirkwood, 94, (affectionally known as "Marna") of Waynesboro, MS passed from this life into the presence of her King, Friday, July 18, 2025, at Wayne General Hospital in Waynesboro, MS. She was born in Laurel, MS on May 10, 1931, to Richard and Paralee Kellum. Dorothy's life is defined by her faith and the ministry she has done with her family in churches throughout Mississippi and surrounding states. Even now, the legacy she leaves is that her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have pastored in 7 US states, are missionaries in Europe and now ministering in conferences throughout the world. Dorothy often said, "My greatest joy is that my children are serving the Lord."
She became the church pianist when she was 14, after only 6 piano lessons and over the years, countless churches and individuals were blessed by her singing and playing of both piano or bass guitar. She loved to sing in ensembles & choirs where her clear alto made the group complete. In later years her favorite pastime was watching Gaither Homecoming videos.
Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Rev. Alton Kirkwood, the love of her life. She is survived by her children, Keith (Gladys) Kirkwood of Hurley, MS, Tom (Patsy) Kirkwood, Crystal Springs, MS, Reneé Smith (Larry), Pontotoc, MS, Richard (Rosanna) Kirkwood, Ellisville, MS, and Greg (Sonya) Kirkwood of McIntosh, AL., thirteen grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.
Visitation for Mrs. Kirkwood will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Monday, July 21, 2025, at Freeman Funeral Home, 1305 Skyland Drive, Waynesboro, MS. Funeral Services will be held at 2:30 PM Tuesday, July 22, 2025, with a lie-in-state from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Progress Assembly of God Church in Wayne County, MS with Rev. Scott Davis Rev. Larry Smith officiating. Interment will be in Progress Cemetery in Wayne County, MS.