Bernice A. Kirk

Bernice A. Spears Kirk was born on August 8, 1932, in Bexar, Alabama, the fifth of seven children to Joe Renzie and Ora Lee Bobo Spears. On January 24, 2026, at the age of 93, she peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and steadfast faith in God.

In 1954, while attending Central State University, Bernice met and married Adell Kirk, a partner whose dreams and purpose aligned with her own. While Adell fulfilled his ROTC commitment, they lived in Fort Benning, Georgia, and Fort Knox, Kentucky, where their first child was born. They later moved to Dayton, Ohio, where they welcomed their second child. In Dayton, Bernice made history at the National Cash Register Company, when becoming the first Black cashier in its Credit Union. This was an accomplishment reflecting her quiet courage and determination.

In 1968, the family relocated to Yellow Springs, Ohio, seeking the best environment and education for their children. In 1969, Bernice endured profound loss when her husband and her father passed within weeks of one another. Even amid grief, she continued forward with strength and grace. As a single mother raising two adolescent children, she remained deeply committed to First Baptist Church, serving as Secretary, Usher Board President, AWANA volunteer, Missionary, and through other ministries and programs that supported families and neighbors in need.

Bernice dedicated 28 years of service to the Defense Electronic Supply Center (DESC) as an Inventory Management Specialist Supervisor, retiring in 1994. She received distinguished honors, including the Defense Logistics Agency Distinguished Career Award and the Outstanding DESC Service Award. In 1987, her participation in the Department of Defense Supply Management Enhancement Program took her to Washington, D.C., where she worked in the office of the Secretary of Defense.

Committed to lifelong learning, she completed her undergraduate degree at Central State University in 1978 and pursued master’s studies at Central Michigan University in 1979.

Bernice found joy in everyday blessings, walking nearly every day, exercising at Curves, traveling near and far, and spending time with the people she loved most.

Bernice was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Adell Kirk; her parents, Joe Renzie Spears and Ora Lee Bobo Spears; and her siblings Francis Spears McCullough, Edgar Spears, Meagon Spears Key, LB Spears, and David Spears.

She is survived by her sister, Deborah Spears Gardner; her children, Werdell Kirk and Linda Lee (Christopher) Cox; and numerous nieces and nephews, each carrying forward the love and strength she so freely gave.

Funeral Service 12 pm Saturday, February 7, 2026 at First Baptist Church, 600 Dayton St., Yellow Springs, OH. Visitation 11 am- 12 am. Interment 10 am Monday, February 9, 2026 at West Memory Gardens. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home.

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