Kirk Elliott Gresham

Kirk Elliott Gresham, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 59. Born on March 15, 1965, in Henryetta, Oklahoma, Kirk was the cherished son of Edward and Elnora Nash. Kirk grew up in Hoffman, Oklahoma, and graduated from Dewar High School in the Class of 1983. A proud Dewar Dragon, he excelled in basketball, and track, even competing at the state level in track. It was during middle school that Kirk met the love of his life, Katrina, in seventh grade. They later married in and built a beautiful life together, raising five children: Deon, Lacresha, Lashawna, Noah, and Christopher. Kirk began his professional journey at Skyline Terrace in maintenance, where Joyce and Carl Lyons mentored him and imparted valuable life and professional skills. He worked there for 12 years before transitioning to a 20-year career in maintenance at American Airlines, retiring in 2017. Kirk had a deep passion for fast cars-especially Corvettes-and loved the thrill of hunting deer on his father's land in Okmulgee County. He had a big heart and an even bigger sense of humor, always ready to offer a helping hand or sage advice. He was known for speaking the truth, regardless of how it might be received, and for teaching his children invaluable life lessons-from working on cars to understanding the balance of book smarts and street smarts. Family was everything to Kirk. He was a devoted provider and leader, ensuring his children were self-sufficient and independent. His home was always open to anyone in need of a hot meal or a place to stay. Kirk had a soft spot for kids and was a father figure to many younger men who looked up to him as a role model. Kirk also found joy in the great outdoors, spending time at the lake, and cherished moments with his loved ones. To those who knew him, he was the biggest "teddy bear"-a man of strength, wisdom, and unwavering love. Kirk is survived by his parents, Edward and Elnora Nash; his wife of many years, Katrina Gresham; his six children, Deon, Lacresha, Lashawna, Brianna, Noah, and Christopher; his grandchildren, Desaray, Wynter, Deon Jr., and Daisy; his great-grandson, Tyrus; his brother, Keith Gresham; his sisters, Claudetta and Beverly; and numerous extended family members and friends who will forever hold his memory in their hearts. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Rivercrest Chapel, with a reception to follow in the Great Room. The family will receive visitors from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 26, also in the chapel. Kirk will be remembered as a hero, a provider, and a man who embodied love, strength, and compassion. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Kirk Elliott Gresham

March 15, 1965 - December 18, 2024