Bobby Kirby

Loyal, humble, and hardworking, Bobby Kirby will be remembered as a leader in his family and his community. He faced the challenges that came his way with determination and grit, and he was a steadfast presence in the lives of all who loved him, always there for his friends and family. Nothing brought Bobby greater joy than spending time with his loved ones, and he deeply cherished each moment. His dad jokes, witty sense of humor, and contagious laughter brought a spark of light to every room. So dearly loved, Bobby will be forever missed by those who knew him best.

In the wake of WWII, the late 1940s ushered in an era where much of the world was finally able to find some healing. Here at home, the economy was flourishing. Families were reunited after the war, and the historic baby boom was underway. It was during this influential time that Sam and Martha (Brewington) Kirby of Moulton, Alabama, were awaiting the arrival of their baby. They happily announced the birth of their son, Bobby, on December 12 of 1948. Bobby was one of six children in the Kirby household and was raised alongside his brothers, Leon and Hillard, and his three sisters, Eloise, Pat, and Sandy.

In many ways, Bobby was a typical boy of his generation. When he was very young, his family moved to Paw Paw, Michigan, so Bobby didn’t end up with the Southern accent his brothers had. As a teenager, Bobby was known to land himself in his fair share of mischief. He could be quite the fighter throughout his high school years. Bobby graduated from Paw Paw High School in 1967.

Not long after celebrating his graduation, Bobby answered the call to join the United States Army at the age of 19. He was deployed to serve overseas in Vietnam and was a highly respected part of his combat squad. Throughout his two years of service from June of 1967 to June of 1969 in Echo Company 2nd Battalion 39th infantry (Recon Unit), Bobby worked his way up to the rank of Sergeant and served as a rifle sharpshooter. He earned many notable medals, including a Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, a National Defense Service Medal, a Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, an Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device for Valor, a Good Conduct Medal, and a Combat Infantryman Badge. Additionally, he went above and beyond to become a highly decorated combat veteran. Bobby, who was referred to as “Grasshopper” by his comrades, would remain quite close with said comrades for the rest of his life and would help to organize and host reunions in later years.

Home at last, Bobby began working as a bartender. It was through his job that he met Linda, the young woman who would forever hold the key to his heart. A whirlwind romance ensued. Just one year after Bobby returned from Vietnam, he and Linda were united in marriage, and their family quickly began to grow. Bobby and Linda were overjoyed to welcome their two beloved children, Rob and Brian, into their hearts and home. The Kirby home was the place to be, and it was always bustling with activity and friends. In order to provide for his wife and kids, Bobby built a fulfilling career as a chemical operator for Upjohn.

All who knew Bobby will agree that his family was undoubtedly his greatest treasure. He was an amazing and selfless husband to Linda, the love of his life, and went above and beyond to care for her. Bobby thrived in his role as a father. He instilled in his kids the importance of hard work, compassion, and responsibility. The loss of his oldest son, Rob, was devastating for Bobby and the entire family. However, he stepped up as a doting grandfather to Ashley, Austin, and Avery, and it was truly his fierce and unconditional love that held the family together. Ashley would have fond memories of sleepovers at her grandpa’s home. Of course, Bobby’s constant companion, his shiatsu named Kujo, was a beloved part of the family as well.

Bobby’s home was always open. He was an excellent host for family and friends, and he made every holiday and celebration memorable. Cars were a big passion of Bobby’s, and he loved classic cars and attending car shows. He would do mechanical work on cars, as well as rebuilding and selling them. Bobby was the kind of man who enjoyed working with his hands. He took meticulous care of his yard. Bobby had a motorcycle club known as “the Loners.” Some of his favorite comfort foods included burgers, steaks, biscuits and gravy, and other classic Southern dishes, and he loved his Pepsi, Vernor’s, and coffee with plenty of sugar. Bobby enjoyed listening to the classics from the 60s and 70s. In his spare time, he was always happiest when surrounded by his friends and family. Bobby’s Friday nights were reserved for pool with his son, Brian.

With a journey that spanned times of war and peace, plenty and want, grief and so much joy, Bobby Kirby kept his gaze focused on what mattered most through it all. He was a constant source of strength, no matter the circumstances. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Bobby led his family with wisdom and integrity. His generosity was limitless, impacting so many lives for the better, and his effervescence could be felt by all those near. Although life will never be the same without Bobby here, he leaves behind a priceless legacy of service and kindness that his loved ones will be proud to carry on in his footsteps.

Bobby Kirby, age 77, died on May 19, 2026. He was born on December 12, 1948, in Moulton, AL to Sam and Martha (Brewington) Kirby. Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings: Eloise Brown, Hillard Kirby, Leon Kirby, Pat Kirby; and his son: Rob Kirby. Surviving are his wife: Linda; children: Cheryl (Billy) Dupree, and Brian Kirby and his girlfriend: Romaine Speakes; grandchildren: Ashley (Alex) Kirby-Ballentine, Austin Kirby, Avery Kirby; sister: Sandy Kirby; daughter-in-law: Amy Kirby; cousins: Joyceann; niece: Denise; nephew: Ken; great-niece: Ellie, and many more extended family members.

Please join us at a Life Story Visitation on Tuesday May 26 from 5 -7 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900 in the Life Story center, where food, drinks, and stories can be shared. Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas More Catholic Student Parish on Wednesday May 27 at 11 AM. Lunch will follow in the church hall. Burial will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery at 2 PM on Wednesday May 27.

Celebrate Bobby’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW Post 827.