UPDATED-State Senator Greg Kirk (R-Americus) passes away

State Senator Greg Kirk (R-Americus), age 56, died this morning according to a Facebook post by his wife, Rosalyn. 

My knight traded his armor for angel wings early this morning. He is suffering no more he was welcomed home by our Lord with open arms. Our family appreciates all the out pouring prayers, cards, messages, meals etc….. you have offered for Greg & us during this difficult time. We will share arrangements as soon we have them made. Please continue to pray for our family as we learn to cope with our new normal. God Bless each of you!

Senator Kirk was diagnosed with Bile Duct cancer earlier this year and fought hard these past few months, determined to return to the Senate chamber in January and run for Re-election in May. Senator Kirk came into office in 2014 and served Senate District 13 which covers Crisp, Dodge, Dooly, Lee, Tift, Turner, Worth and parts of Sumter and Wilcox. He was Chairman of the Senate State and Local Government Oversight committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, Health and Human Services, and Natural Resources and the Environment committees.

Earlier this week, Senator Kirk gave an interview to WALB:

I’m a fighter, I’ve always been a fighter. For five years I’ve fought for South Georgia and I’ve passed legislation every single solitary year.

When asked what was one of his greatest accomplishments so far, he had an emotional response.

“It was the hot car bill and that’s where if you see an elderly person or child in a car, you can break the window and enter and not have any charges. I still get emotional about that.”

From Governor Brian Kemp:

Greg Kirk was a man of faith who served his family, community, and state with passion and integrity. At the State Capitol, Senator Kirk was an effective lawmaker who lead efforts to spur job creation, strengthen rural Georgia, protect life, and safeguard our freedom. In his community, Sen. Kirk took risks as a entrepreneur to create economic opportunity throughout the region. He faithfully led his congregation at Rehoboth Baptist Church, where he served as Senior Pastor. Sen. Kirk volunteered his time to help the less fortunate and grow the Republican Party. Our prayers are with Greg’s wife, Rosalyn, his seven children, five grandchildren, and all who mourn the passing of this great public servant. May God’s peace, which passes all understanding, be with his family and loved ones at this time.

From Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan:

Our hearts are heavy as we reflect on the passing of Greg Kirk. Greg was a tremendous asset to the senate, but more importantly he was a loving husband, father & grandfather. Brooke and I will fondly remember Greg for his ability to love and his devotion to Jesus Christ.

From Senate Majority Leader Mike Dugan:

Missy and I are heartbroken over the loss of Senator Kirk. We were able to spend time with he and Rosalyn over the weekend and are grateful for their friendship. Greg was a leader in the State Senate with a tremendous heart for the people of our state. We ask that you join us in praying for Rosalyn and the rest of the Kirk family during this difficult time.

From State Senator John Wilkinson:

There are no words to adequately express the loss the State Senate family has experienced. Greg Kirk was a champion for the people. So glad that I had the opportunity to visit with Greg and Rosalyn in their home on Friday. He has upgraded his residence this morning. Please keep Rosalyn and his family in your prayers.

From the Georgia Life Alliance:

Our hearts are aching with the loss of our friend, Senator Kirk. He leaves behind a shining legacy of faithfulness and dedication to defending the innocent and the vulnerable. Please join us in praying for Rosalyn and the Kirk family during this difficult time.

As a point of personal privilege, I am grateful for the opportunity to know and work with Senator Kirk. He and Rosalyn have been dear and faithful friends these past few years. We are heartbroken over the loss of Greg, but grateful he is no longer in pain.

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