J. CYRUS KIRKPATRICK JR.

J. Cyrus Kirkpatrick Jr., 89, of Petersburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully in his home on May 20, 2016. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Kathleen; his son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, Bard, Wendy, Rachel and Tanner Kirkpatrick; daughter, Georgia Kasper and son-in-law, Shane Kasper and his sons, Gus and Miles Kasper; and niece, Kelly Evko, and nephew, Rob Kirkpatrick.
He was preceded in death by his father, John Cyrus Kirkpatrick; mother, Belle Sheally; brother, Phil Kirkpatrick; son, Jay Kirkpatrick; and daughter, Robin Kirkpatrick.
Cyrus was a life-long resident of Petersburg and a 1943 graduate of Petersburg High School. He attended William and Mary College for a brief period prior to enlisting in the United States Navy in which he served aboard AKA 35, the USS Polana from the time of its commissioning in February 1945 until it was decommissioned in April of 1946. The USS Polana spent 13 months at sea in the South Pacific and was part of the task force at the Japanese Surrender Ceremonies.
Cyrus attended the Medical College of Virginia, School of Pharmacy, graduating in May 1950. He practiced pharmacy for 39 years and retired in February of 1989 to pursue other interests. While active, he began Walnut Hill Pharmacy in 1958 and later opened Cyrus Kirkpatrick Pharmacy and Sycamore Professional Pharmacy; two of the three are still in practice today.
Cyrus cherished his hometown of Petersburg and was committed to preserving its history. He was an active member of his community serving on numerous boards and committees. After his retirement, Cyrus spent much of his time with his family in Nags Head, North Carolina, at his home on the Roanoke Sound. Whether indulging in the fresh seafood or soaking up the last moments of the North Carolina sunset, Cyrus spent his days with a smile on his face. Above all, what Cyrus, affectionately known as "Poppy," loved most was his family. His wife was his best friend, who, together with his children, he loved dearly.
Cyrus was devoted to Christ and Grace Episcopal Church, in which he was confirmed by Bishop Brown in 1939 with his life-long friend, Norman Simpson. He was fortunate to serve with all rectors of Christ and Grace, beginning with the Reverend Dr. Edwin R. Carter, Reverend Dr. Boston M. Lackey Jr. and the Reverend David H. Teschner, one of his closest friends.
A celebration of his life is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 26, 2016, at Christ and Grace Episcopal Church in Petersburg, Virginia, with a reception to follow in the Parrish Hall. Reverend David Teschner will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Cyrus' long and full life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christ and Grace Episcopal Church at 1545 South Sycamore Street, Petersburg, VA 23805.
Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com