Remembering Charlie Kirk: A Monumental Memorial in Arizona
- Richard Sykes
- Sep 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 23
Glendale, AZ — In a powerful display of faith, patriotism, and mourning, tens of thousands gathered at State Farm Stadium on Sunday, September 21, to honor the life and legacy of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The founder of Turning Point USA was tragically killed on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University. He was 31.
The memorial service, which drew an estimated 100,000 attendees and millions more via livestream, blended gospel worship with political tribute in a five-hour event that felt more like a national rally than a traditional funeral.1
A Stage of Voices and Vision
Charlie’s widow, Erika Kirk, delivered a moving eulogy, announcing her new role as CEO of Turning Point USA. “Charlie and I were united with purpose,” she said. “His passion was my passion, and now this mission is my mission”. She also offered a moment of grace, publicly forgiving her husband’s killer: “I forgive him because it was what Christ did and is what Charlie would do”. 1
President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other high-profile figures including Marco Rubio, Tulsi Gabbard, and Tucker Carlson spoke at the event. Trump called Kirk “a martyr for American freedom” and praised his unwavering commitment to conservative values.2
Worship and Tribute
The service featured performances by Christian music artists such as Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe, Brandon Lake, and Lee Greenwood, whose rendition of “God Bless the USA” brought the crowd to its feet.3 Pyrotechnics and patriotic visuals punctuated the event, which was held during Sunday morning church hours—a symbolic nod to Kirk’s evangelical roots.1
A Legacy of Learning
Hillsdale College President Dr. Larry Arnn announced that Charlie Kirk would receive a posthumous honorary degree, recognizing his impact on civic education and youth engagement. Erika Kirk was also honored with the same degree, underscoring their shared mission.4
Final Reflections
Charlie Kirk will be laid to rest in Phoenix, his adoptive hometown. As Erika Kirk said, “Charlie wanted to save young men—just like the one who took his life.” Her words echoed throughout the stadium, a call to continue the work her husband began.
The memorial was not just a farewell—it was a rallying cry for faith, freedom, and dialogue. In the words of one attendee, “Charlie’s voice may be gone, but his message is louder than ever.”
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