Thomas Kirkwood

Tom was born on December 31, 1954, in Indianapolis, Indiana, and spent most of his life in Franklin, where he built not only a home, but a legacy of faith, family, and hard work.

A skilled carpenter by trade, Tom took great pride in working with his hands, creating and building with care and excellence until his retirement. But more than anything he built, Tom was most proud of the life he built with Cheryl, his wife of 48 years. Together, they shared a deep love for one another and a spirit of adventure, traveling the world side by side and making memories that will be cherished for generations.

Tom was a man who truly loved life. Whether he was out on the water boating and fishing, pulling his grandkids on a tube around the lake with a smile on his face, or tending to his yard (his own backyard oasis) he found joy in the simple and meaningful moments. He rarely missed a chance to cheer on his grandchildren at their sporting events, and he was a loyal fan of the Indiana Hoosiers and the Cincinnati Reds. Tom also loved adventure, even recently embracing the opportunity to go bungee jumping twice in New Zealand at the age of 70.

His personality was unforgettable. Tom had a way of making people feel at ease with his humor, his warmth, and his unmistakable joy. He loved to laugh, loved to joke, and was known

for giving the kind of hugs that made you feel truly loved. Family was his greatest treasure, and he lived every day with that priority in clear view.

Above all, Tom loved the Lord with all his heart. His faith was the foundation of his life. For over 30 years, he faithfully served alongside Cheryl as a Sunday school teacher at Franklin Baptist

Church, a church founded by his father-in-law, Dale Chambers. Most recently, they were devoted members of University Baptist Church (Pastor Glenn LaRue), and Tom also faithfully watched Sunlight Community Church (FL) online each week, where his son serves as pastor. His life was a testimony to steady, enduring faith and a love for Christ that shaped everything he did.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Kirkwood; his youngest son, Stephen Kirkwood; his beloved daughter in-laws: Amanda Kirkwood and Crystal Cotton; his cherished grandchildren: Shelby Stare, Logan Stare, Anna Kirkwood, Adam Kirkwood, Grace Kirkwood, and Makayla Kirkwood; his wonderful mother in-law, Joyce Chambers; his Sister in-law, Donna King; and his brothers: Charles (Tammi) Kirkwood, & Michael Kirkwood; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his eldest son, Timothy Kirkwood (2021); by his mother, Elene Kirkwood; and his siblings: Carol (Kenny) McCarroll; Bobby Jenkins; Cecelia (Don) Cherry; James (Peggy) Jenkins; Larry Kirkwood; Linda Thorpe; and Judy Moss.

A visitation will be held on Monday, April 20, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and a funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 21, at 10:00 AM, with Pastor Steve Kirkwood officiating. Both services will take place at Franklin Baptist Church.

Tom’s life was marked by love—love for his Savior, love for his family, and love for the life he was given. While he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the hope and promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”