JoAnn Kirk

JoAnn (House) Kirk, a devoted believer, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025, at the age of 85. She was born in Bicknell, Indiana on July 29, 1940 to Hugh Harlan House and Mary Robertine (McClure) House. She lived a life full of love and service and extended grace and compassion to everyone she met.

JoAnn grew up on a farm in southern Indiana. She graduated from Bruceville High School in 1958. In 1959, she married Ronald E. Kirk while they were both attending Purdue University. They were married for 32 years. JoAnn graduated with a Master’s degree from Indiana University in 1988. She loved serving others and was a social worker at Winona Hospital for 17 years.

JoAnn had a joyful spirit with a unique talent for being able to connect with people from all walks of life. She was an empathetic listener, always offering support in times of need. JoAnn’s compassion for others was only rivaled by her deep love for family. She particularly enjoyed spending time together, engaging in conversation, always ensuring that everyone felt heard and valued.

JoAnn was a member of Church at the Crossing in Indianapolis for fifty years. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. She loved missions, was a note writer on the Prayer Team, and served as a Sunday School teacher, Stephen Minister, and Grief Share counselor. She was a long-time member of Bible Study Fellowship. After losing her husband, JoAnn started a Bible Study group in her home for other widows. That special group is still together today, studying the Word, building friendships, and walking through life together. She cherished her group. They were an incredible blessing to her.

JoAnn loved IU basketball, never missing a game. She was also a talented quilter, sewer, and scrapbooker. She was always active - learning, developing, and embracing technology and other new things. She was incredibly strong and tough in times of adversity. But her gift was connecting with people, especially those who were struggling, grieving, or needed a helping hand. She had an open door at her home where friends, neighbors, and family could come in at any time. She welcomed the opportunity to walk beside those experiencing difficulties, offering a listening ear, a warm smile, support, prayer, and encouragement.

JoAnn is survived by her beloved and loving daughters, Jennifer (Brad) Schulz and Cynthia (Kevin) Reese; and her cherished grandchildren who adored her so very much, Zachary, Hannah, Jack, and Gabriel. She is preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Ronald E. Kirk, with whom she shared a life filled with cherished memories.

As we gather to celebrate JoAnn's remarkable life, we invite you to join us for a visitation and celebration of life at Church at the Crossing, located at 9111 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis, IN 46240. The visitation will take place on October 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a celebration of her life at 12:00 PM.

JoAnn will be remembered for her deep love for the Lord, her joy, warmth, and compassionate heart, her laughter and ability to listen and encourage, and the countless lives she positively impacted during her journey. Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who were blessed enough to know her.