The Liberty Union and Zanesville communities are mourning the heartbreaking loss of PFC Connor David Kirkpatrick, 21, and his beloved wife, Kristin Elizabeth Morris Kirkpatrick, who both passed away on July 16, 2026, following a tragic car accident. Their unexpected deaths have left family members, friends, fellow service members, and loved ones grieving the loss of a young couple remembered for their love, dedication, and the positive impact they had on those around them.
Connor was born on April 14, 2005, in Zanesville, Ohio. He attended Liberty Union Middle and High School and graduated in 2023. During his high school years, Connor was a dedicated member of the Liberty Union Marching, Concert, and Pep Bands for four years, where he played the sousaphone and tuba.
Beyond school activities, Connor was known for his adventurous personality, creativity, and strong connections with family and friends. He enjoyed working out with friends, hiking, camping, spending time outdoors, building DIY construction projects, assembling Legos, and riding bicycles with his brother. He was also passionate about tattoos and expressed himself through his unique interests and hobbies.
Connor had a deep commitment to serving his country. In 2024, he enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Bragg, where he served on active duty as a Private First Class and Parachute Rigger. His dedication to military service reflected his determination, discipline, and desire to contribute to something larger than himself.
Connor’s life was also defined by his relationship with Kristin. Although both attended Liberty Union, with Kristin graduating in 2022, their relationship began after high school. Their connection quickly grew into a strong partnership, and they soon became inseparable. Six months after beginning their relationship, the couple became engaged during a trip to the Bahamas and later married on September 9, 2025, in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Together, Connor and Kristin built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared experiences while living in Spring Lake, North Carolina. They created lasting friendships with coworkers and community members while maintaining close relationships with loved ones back home. Those who knew them described their bond as a deep and devoted partnership, with the couple embracing life’s adventures together. Their two cats, Minnie Millennium and Biscuit, were cherished additions to their family.
Connor is survived by his parents, Trent and Amanda Cowgill; his siblings, Gavin, Marley August, Gabe, Scarlett, and Trevor; along with many close friends, fellow soldiers, and a supportive community in both Ohio and North Carolina who continue to honor his memory.
A joint visitation and memorial service for Connor and Kristin will be held on August 1, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Liberty Union High School Auditorium, 500 W Washington St, Baltimore, Ohio. A service celebrating their lives, including a sharing of stories and memories, will follow at 3 p.m. Full military honors will take place after the service in recognition of Connor’s service to his country.
As family and friends gather to remember Connor and Kristin, they are honoring two lives that brought love, joy, and kindness to many. Their memories will continue to live on through the people they touched and the lasting legacy they leave behind.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. Funeral arrangements, obituary details, and memorial information should be confirmed through official family announcements or verified sources. The family will share additional obituary, funeral, and memorial details as they become available. Pending official updates, not all information published online may be accurate or complete.
