Remembering Charlie Kirk, A Courageous Voice for Faith and Freedom

Guest Opinion by Perry O. Hooper Jr.

America is grieving. On September 10, 2025, Charlie Kirk was senselessly taken from us at just 31 years old. Shot while addressing a crowd at Utah Valley University, he was doing what he had always done, fearlessly speaking truth and rallying young people to stand up for God and country When I first heard the news, my heart sank. This wasn’t just the death of a man; it was the silencing of one of the boldest voices of our generation. Yet even in sorrow, we cling to God’s promise: “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints” (Psalm 116:15). Charlie’s death was not the end, but the beginning of eternal life with Christ.

President Donald J. Trump said it best when he posted, “Charlie Kirk was a warrior for freedom, a friend, and a man who loved America with all his heart. He inspired millions, and his impact will live on for generations.” He’s right. Charlie stood shoulder to shoulder with President Trump from the beginning, never wavering, never compromising, even when the full force of the Left came against him.

Others, too, recognized the loss. Coach Tommy Tuberville said, “Charlie Kirk was a true patriot and a fighter for the next generation. He had the courage to stand up for America’s values, and Alabama stands with his family in prayer.” And Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth added, “Charlie’s voice gave strength to young conservatives across this country. His legacy will continue to inspire us to defend our freedoms and put our faith into action.”I had the privilege of meeting Charlie Kirk myself at an event in Tuscaloosa a few years back. That evening left a mark on me. I walked away knowing I had met a man on a mission. Charlie spoke with such conviction, such clarity, that you couldn’t help but feel stronger just for having been in the room. He had a gift—not just to communicate, but to awaken something inside of you, to stir up courage you didn’t even realize you had. That night, I saw why he was able to inspire a generation.

His passing leaves a void in many hearts, especially for his wife, Erika, who walked beside him in this journey of faith, activism, and service. To Patrice and to the entire Turning Point USA teamour prayers are with you. May the Lord surround you with His comfort, His strength, and His peace that “surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).

America is better because Charlie Kirk lived. He was bold, he was faithful, and he was fearless. His life was a sermon, and now it falls to us to carry that message forward. Let us honor him not only with our words, but with our courage. Let us live as Charlie lived—standing tall for faith, freedom, and truth. 

Evil may think it has claimed a victory, but it has not. Because Charlie’s voice will continue to echo in the lives of millions he touched. His legacy will not be silenced. And his mission is now ours.

Perry O. Hooper Jr. is a longtime Alabama Republican figure, former Alabama Legislator and Montgomery businessman. He served as Co-Chair of “Alabama Trump Victory” in 2016, and served as an at-large delegate to the Republican National Convention. He is a noted civic leader in Montgomery with deep family roots in Alabama’s legal and political history.

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