Bebe Kirkpatrick Fuqua, 85, of South Pittsburg, TN died Saturday, September 24, 2016 at her home following a courageous battle with cancer.

The daughter of the late Dr. Joe W. Kirkpatrick, Jr. and Wilma "Pinkie" Houston Kirkpatrick, she was also preceded in death by her brother, Don Kirkpatrick; niece, Susan Kirkpatrick; and nephew, Toby Stewart.

Bebe was an active, lifelong member of Holly Avenue United Methodist Church in South Pittsburg, where she was also a valued, long-time member of the sanctuary choir. She was also a member of the Marion County Teachers Association, the TEA, NEA and the South Pittsburg Historic Preservation Society.

A graduate of South Pittsburg High School, she earned her teaching degree at George Peabody College for Teachers and, following graduation, came home to begin her career as an educator at her alma mater. At the time of her return to SPHS, there was not a Girls' Basketball or Softball program at the school. Bebe recognized the benefits of quality girls' sports programs, so she started both a Basketball and Softball program for the young ladies at SPHS. She coached both sports for many years, as well as serving as the Cheerleading coach at one time. Bebe was one of South Pittsburg High School's most respected and beloved teachers and coaches, officially retiring in 1996, after 41 years of service.

Despite the official "retiree" designation, Bebe never truly retired from her position as a mentor to the students and athletes at South Pittsburg High School. She could be seen frequently in locker rooms, and on courts and fields, inspiring and guiding new generations of athletes and scholars. Her legacy of inspiration to those who walked the halls of SPHS will live forever in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Louis Ward Fuqua; two sons, Kirk Fuqua and Kevin (Amy) Fuqua; grandson, Mason Fuqua; granddaughter, McKenna Fuqua; brother, Neil (Janie) Kirkpatrick; sister-in-law, Shelby Kirkpatrick; several nieces, nephews and a host of friends and students.

Funeral services will be conducted from the South Pittsburg Chapel of Rogers Funeral Home at 3:00pm Central time on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 with Rev. Lyle White officiating. Interment will be in Richards Cemetery.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, September 27th from 4-9pm Central time and on Wednesday, September 28th from 12-3pm Central at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Holly Avenue United Methodist Church Youth Fund, PO Box 189, South Pittsburg, TN 37380 or to the South Pittsburg Historic Preservation Society, PO Box 175, South Pittsburg, TN 37380.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.rogersfuneralhome.com.