Thomas “Tom” Martin Kirby, Sr., 84, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, was born on June 21, 1934, in Winston-Salem, NC, to John Henry Kirby, Sr. and Blanche Fogleman Kirby. The youngest of four children, Tom grew up in a happy, loving household, and met the love of his life, Loretta White Kirby, at Hanes High School. They were married for sixty-three years and have two children, Thomas (“Tommy”) Martin Kirby, Jr. (1959 – 1980), and Terri Kirby Erickson (Leonard), of Pfafftown, and one grandchild, Gia Riana Myers (Brandon) of Kernersville.
Tom attended High Point College and was a technical illustrator with Western Electric/Lucent until his retirement. He enjoyed spending time with family and was an avid and accomplished golfer. In fact, Tom loved and participated in many different sports, was an official for local football games, and spent time, after his retirement, as a golf course ranger at Tanglewood and Oak Valley.
Tom loved strawberry shortcake, banana milkshakes, and every dinner and dessert his wife ever made, particularly her homemade coconut cookies. He liked foot-tapping music, all things “cowboy,” and truly never met a stranger. His wonderful sense of humor and kindness to all endeared him to everyone he encountered.
He took great pleasure in discussing politics, current events, and just about anything anyone wanted to talk about, particularly if it was positive and uplifting. Laughing and making other people laugh along with him, helped Tom cope with grief and loss, and the health challenges he faced later in life. He was an example of courage and endurance, good humor and faith—a man who left this world a better place and was adored by his family and friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Nancy Kirby Ward, and his beloved son, “Tommy”. Surviving are his devoted wife, Loretta, daughter Terri and her husband, Leonard; granddaughter Gia and her fiancé, Brandon; brother John Henry Kirby, Jr. of Richmond, VA; sister Betty Kirby Voss of Ft. Myers, FL; brother-in-law Stephen White; many nieces and nephews; and a number of friends, golf buddies, and people who never knew his name, but were blessed by his caring attention and innate kindness.
The family wishes to thank Trellis Supportive Care, Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, and every healthcare worker and physician who took care of Tom—a loving husband and the best daddy and granddaddy in the world. We will miss him so much. A memorial service will be conducted at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel at 4:00 pm on March 14, 2019 officiated by Rev.
Joanne Henley. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home immediately following the service.
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