Kent Kirby's Obituary
Kent Lyle Kirby, 77, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, in Decatur, IL.
He was born in Decatur on October 16, 1947, a son of the late Forest Lyle Kirby and Pauline Brandenburg Kirby. Kent was a proud veteran, having served his country in the United States Air Force. Following his time in the military, Kent went on to work as a mail carrier and later as a supervisor for the United States Postal Service.
Kent will be remembered for being steadfast and meticulous. He was a great brother, loving father, and wonderful grandfather, who always had a two-dollar bill on hand. American muscle cars were what brought him the most joy in life, whether that was driving them, tinkering with them, or simply enjoying the view. If he wasn’t behind the wheel, he could often be found out on the shooting range, as he was an avid gun enthusiast.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Belke Kirby, and paternal grandparents, Frank Lyle Kirby and Stella Mae Kirby.
Those surviving include: brother, Randy Kirby and wife Marla; three sons, James Kirby, Scott Kirby and Michelle, Todd Kirby and wife Shannon; three stepchildren, Christina Maltby, Brian Maltby and wife Leesa, and Brad Maltby; niece and nephew, Kevin and Lori; grandchildren, Alex, Andrea, Jordyn, Blaike and wife Katie, Kyleigh and husband Beni, Kelsey, Taryn, and Abby; as well as twelve great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held for Kent at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, with visitation and hour prior to service. Burial will follow at Fairlawn Cemetery.
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