Fern Kirksey

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Fern Kirksey, a previous long-time resident of Monette, left her struggles of this earth behind Sunday afternoon and went to an eternal peace with Jesus. Fern had lived in Huntsville, Ala., with her son and his family since the mid-1980s and enjoyed an active and full life there until her struggle with Alzheimer's slowed her down a few years ago. She took joy in creating a beautiful flower garden in the front yard of her little house in Huntsville's historic district and a photo of her working in it was featured twice in the Huntsville Times. While the flower garden at her earthly home has now lost its beauty, she will likely be improving the gardens in Heaven shortly after her arrival there.

Fern Kirksey

Although small in stature, Fern had a very big heart and often helped those in need around her either with physical needs or just kind words of encouragement. Even after moving into an assisted living facility and, later, a nursing home, her light-hearted spirit was a source of joy to those caring for her with caregivers in both facilities telling her son "your mother was my favorite." She will be remembered by both family and caregivers as the sweet little lady who brought joy to those around her by singing "Zip a Dee Doo Dah" whenever asked.

She is survived her son and his wife, Keith and Lynn Kirksey of Huntsville; two granddaughters, Kelley Thaxton of Huntsville and Elizabeth Bowman of Madison, Ala.; and five great-grandchildren; Chase, Corey, Caity, Aaliyah, and McKinley.

She was preceded in death by a son, Rickey Kirksey, and her ex-husband, Donald Kirksey.

A graveside service to celebrate her life will be 10 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, at the Monette Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Gregg Funeral Home of Monette.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8, at the funeral home.

Personal condolences may be sent to the Kirksey family at

www.greggfunerals.com.