James Henry Kirk's Obituary
JAMES HENRY KIRK, 79, of Leesburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, after a sudden and brief illness.
Jim was a lifelong learner and a man of quiet integrity, known for his sharp mind, warm spirit, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. He earned his undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne and went on to receive his Master’s in Finance from the University of Chicago—an academic foundation that served him well in his long and accomplished career.
Jim spent the entirety of his professional life with Mobil Oil Company, where his work took him across the globe. From building a refinery from the ground up in Saudi Arabia to assignments in Japan, Brussels, New York, Illinois, Texas and Virginia, Jim brought excellence and dedication to every project. He formed enduring friendships with colleagues around the world and remained closely connected to a group of fellow retired engineers who met weekly for lunch, affectionately known as the “ROMEOs”—Retired Old Men Eating Out.
Jim fully embraced life. In his younger years, he was an avid skier and traveler. More recently, he could often be found on the golf course or tending to his prized tomato plants. A man of great curiosity and deep values, he was always learning, asking questions, and seeking new challenges.
James leaves many to cherish his memory including his wife of 47 years, Ellen McCarthy Kirk, his brother, Robert Kirk and wife Sally; his Aunt Betty; his nephew Michael Kirk; his niece Catherine Bindi; as well as many other grand and great grand nieces and nephews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Emily (Enders) Kirk and his brother William Kirk and his wife Joan of Chicago, Illinois
Jim’s legacy is one of integrity, curiosity, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 11:00 to 11:30 AM at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, located at 158 Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg, Virginia. A funeral service will begin at 11:30 AM at the same location. Following the service, a luncheon reception will be held at River Creek Club.
James will be interred on a later date at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Salem, Massachusetts.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s honor to Loudoun First Responders
Foundation, https://secure.qgiv.com/for/loudounfirstrespondersfoundation.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com
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