Martha Lillian Kirkpatrick

1936 - 2026

Martha Lillian (Null) Kirkpatrick of Marietta, GA died at her home on February 13, 2026. She was 89 years old. She was born in Boligee, AL on February 16, 1936, the daughter of Francis Clyde Null and Blanche Cox Null. Lillian spent her formidable years in Demopolis, AL graduating from Demopolis High in 1954. While attending Agnes Scott College in Decatur, GA, she met the love of her life, Jim Kirkpatrick. They married in 1956 and had a 62-year love affair that lasted a lifetime. In 1963, they settled in Marietta, GA and raised their three sons. Lillian was active in various social and service organizations. In 1967, she became the business manager for Cobb Radiology & Associates. She continued in that position though out the company's growth and expansion. She often served as an inspiration and mentor for many of the other employees. She enjoyed her work and often challenged colleagues and others to push beyond their perceived limits. She retired in 1998. Lillian then returned to Agnes Scott College to finish her degree. She graduated in 2004 with a degree in Philosophy. Later in retirement, she became a student and then a mentor with the Education for Ministry (EfM) programs through her church, St. James Episcopal in Marietta. Here again she inspired and challenged many of the participants to view ideas from various perspectives. She really loved being alive. Lillian didn't let the years diminish her sense of awe and wonder with the world. One of her many passions was the outdoors and hikes with Jim. She loved cooking and being with her family. There were many fun and lively discussions around her kitchen table during and after a meal. Lillian was always a person of great strength, virtue and kindness. She lived by high standards, always trying to see the good in others and diminishing their faults. She encouraged this in others, especially in her children, her grandchildren, and in all those she knew. She lived her values and passed them on to many people whose lives she touched. Lillian was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jim, her two older brothers, and one grandchild. She is survived by her sons James L. Kirkpatrick III M.D. and spouse Lee Baskin Kirkpatrick, Francis C. Kirkpatrick and spouse Frank Colubiale, and William Scott Kirkpatrick M.D. and spouse Jane Denman Kirkpatrick M.D. She is also survived by her younger brother Charles Null and spouse Gay Walson Null as well as five grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Lillian's family want to thank Comfort Keepers and its caretakers for the invaluable care and friendship they have provided Lillian during the final years of her life. A huge thanks to all of you. A funeral will be held at St. James Episcopal Church, 161 Church Street, Marietta, GA 30060 on Saturday February 21, 2026, at 10:00AM. Family will receive guest starting at 9:30 AM in the church parlor. A coffee reception will be held after the service in the church parish hall. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to one of the following: Doctors Without Borders, Heifer International or a charity of your choice.