A public memorial service is scheduled for next weekend at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona to honor the life and work of Charlie Kirk, founder of the national youth organization Turning Point USA. The announcement was made by Turning Point USA through its official channels as part of a broader effort to celebrate the legacy of its late founder.
Charlie Kirk launched Turning Point USA in 2012 from a small garage in Lemont, Illinois. In just over a decade he transformed the grassroots project into one of the most recognizable student movements in the country, reaching millions of people and training thousands of young leaders. Supporters say he was driven by a passion for mentoring, encouraging the next generation to participate in civic life and hold fast to their values.
A tribute posted on the memorial website described Kirk as a man of faith, conviction and leadership who remained deeply committed to his family and his country. The statement highlighted how he inspired others to pursue truth, defend their beliefs and serve their communities. It concluded with a Bible verse calling him a good and faithful servant.
The memorial service at State Farm Stadium will open its doors at eight o’clock in the morning, with the main program beginning at eleven o’clock. The stadium, which regularly hosts major public events and professional sports, is expected to welcome a large crowd of friends, family members, supporters and admirers from across the nation who want to pay their respects and reflect on Kirk’s impact.
News of the memorial immediately generated widespread reaction online. Supporters praised the scale of the gathering and expressed their hopes for a meaningful celebration of his life. Some social media posts voiced disappointment about the timing of the service overlapping with Sunday morning worship hours, while others emphasized that the occasion would be an opportunity to honor a man who championed faith, family and freedom.
Erika Kirk, Charlie’s wife, has been sharing messages of gratitude and faith on social media since his passing. She has publicly thanked first responders, investigators and community members who offered support during this difficult time. She also acknowledged the outreach from public figures including former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, noting how much their friendship and support meant to her husband.
In a recent appearance she spoke emotionally about Charlie Kirk’s life and legacy. She said her husband often talked about wanting to be remembered not only as a political leader but also as a man of faith and courage. She pledged to continue his work through the nonprofit he founded, ensuring that the mission of Turning Point USA remains strong for future generations.
The upcoming memorial at State Farm Stadium is expected to serve as both a tribute to Charlie Kirk’s personal life and a reflection on the movement he created. Attendees will have the chance to hear stories, remember his achievements and celebrate the values he promoted. For those unable to be present in Arizona, online tributes and shared memories continue to pour in, underscoring the far-reaching influence of a leader whose vision started small but grew into a national platform.