James V. (Jim) KIRK, one of the best known men in this county collapsed and died suddenly at his home in Ina at 6:30 o'clock this morning. His age was 70 years, five months and eight days. Mr. KIRK had been in ill health for the past four months and relatives attributed his death to a heart attack. He got up at 6:30 a.m. to shake down the stove and collapsed on the floor. He was dead on arrival of a physician.

Tentative funeral arrangements have been set for two o'clock Saturday afternoon at the Methodist Church in Ina. Burial will be in Kirk Cemetery.

Mr. KIRK, throughout a colorful and varied career, made a large number of friends.

When a young man he was a farmer in Elk Prairie Township. He was active in the interests of the Republican party, served as a precinct committeeman, was for a short time as postmaster at Ina, and was once awarded a state appointment. He retired from active work about two years ago. At that time he owned and operated a service station in Ina.

Responsible principally for his wide acquaintanceship was his job of driving a peddling wagon for a cousin, M. E. KIRK, several years ago. The peddling wagon was filled with staple groceries and Mr. KIRK drove over his route to farm homes and the farmers bought their groceries from him. On this job he covered most of the south part of the county.

Mr. KIRK was born August 20, 1869, in Elk Prairie Township, the son of Mr. and Mrs. John KIRK.

When a young man he was united in marriage with Emma CLINTON, who survives him.

In 1900 he and his wife moved to Ina and he was a respected resident of that community until his death.

Surviving besides his widow are the following children: J. H. KIRK of St. Louis, Mrs. Mella DAVIS of Carbondale, Mrs. Nell ADAMS of Bonnie, John C. KIRK of West Frankfort, Mrs. Nina MARSHALL of Chester, Mrs. Ina LANE of Cave-In-Rock, and Byford KIRK, at home; 23 grandchildren and one great grandchild. One son, Everett, preceded him in death about three years ago. Mr. KIRK was the last of seven children.

Source: Mt. Vernon IL Register-News
Date: Thursday, February 8, 1940
Submitted by Mary Zinzilieta