James "Kirk" Waters

James "Kirk" Waters, 87, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Hospice of the Panhandle. Born on August 16, 1937, in Grafton, West Virginia, Kirk was the son of the late Mabel Josephine (Wadsworth) and John Michael Waters.

Kirk is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Barbara “June” (Wright) Waters. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family. He was the proud father of Creighton Waters and his wife Betsy, and Elizabeth Bline and her husband Scott. Kirk deeply cherished his role as a grandfather to Samuel Waters, and Madeleine and Evelyn Bline.

Throughout his life, Kirk was a man of service and community. He spent a year in San Antonio as a medic in the Army Reserves and was later an active member of the Lions Club, devoting his time to charitable causes and various volunteer efforts. His dedication to helping others left a lasting impact on the communities he called home.

In his younger years, Kirk enjoyed fishing and camping trips with his wife and children, creating many lasting memories filled with joy and laughter. Kirk worked for both Equifax and WV Job Service. After retiring, he and June embraced the joy of travel, journeying together to many beautiful places.

Kirk’s faith was a guiding force in his life. He was a longtime member of St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Grafton, WV. Upon moving to Martinsburg, he became a dedicated member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, where he remained actively involved for the rest of his life.

In addition to his parents, Kirk is preceded in death by his beloved brother, Judge John Lawrence Waters, who he shared a very special bond with.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Rosedale Funeral Home in Martinsburg, West Virginia. A funeral service will be held the following day, Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 10:00am, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Following the funeral service Kirk will be laid to rest at St. Leo’s Catholic Church Cemetery, in Inwood, West Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Panhandle, in gratitude for the outstanding care and compassion they provided.