John Thomas Kirby
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Memorial service for John Thomas Kirby, 70, Lawrence will be private. He died tragically on April 8, 2022.
John was born on December 8, 1951 in Kansas City, MO the son of John Joseph & Betty Lou (Megede) Kirby.
He was the owner of John Kirby Insurance Company, representing American National for over 30 years.
On May 1, 1982, John was united in marriage to Carolyn S Kennedy in Lawrence, KS.
Other survivors include children, Lora Hegeman, Lawrence, Stacey Torres, Lawrence, Steven (Brandi) Stauffer, Wellsville, Chris (Debi) Kirby, Omaha, NE, Andy (Ellie) Kirby, Omaha, NE; nine grandchildren, Erin Kirby, Sara Hegeman, Alex (Taylor) Mische, Jackson (Jordan) Kirby, Devin Kirby (Christian), Samantha Torres (Tommy), Caden Kirby, Eli Torres, Kaylee Stauffer; three great-grandchildren, Brantley, Jordyn, Kaceton; Brother Matt(Marian)Kirby, Sister Kate (Dennis)Pfeifer, sister in law Callie Kirby, brother in law Bernard Kennedy, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Michael Kirby and Joseph Kirby, Sister Mary McMurray.
The family suggests Memorial contributions may be made in his name to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Drivers) and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
Carolyn and family. We are so sorry for this tragic loss. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike and Claudia Jones
So sad to hear about John. I always enjoyed talking to John and Carolyn when I was the mail carrier on Vermont St. Always such a cheerful, fun guy. Thoughts and prayers to the whole family.
So sorry to hear of John’s tragic death, he will always be remembered, my thoughts and prayers go out to all of John’s family.
Carolyn and family
My heart and soul go out to the death of John. So sad, john was such a nice guy and so unfair. So sorry for loss to you and family.
.
Carolyn and Family
So sorry to hear about John . When he came into Walgreens he always had a big smile on his face. He loved talking about his family and he always asked about my grandchildren. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Carolyn and family, Susan and I are so sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed talking with John and have fun with him when he supported our car related activities. Prayers for you old friend Carolyn.
Carolyn and Family!
We are so sorry for your loss. Such a tragedy and so unfair. Please know our thoughts and prayers are for you.
Dear Kirby Family – You don’t know me….but when I was growing up, I lived next door to the Kirby family on Madison Street in KCMO. My childhood best friend, Linda, lived on the other side of their house. Linda and I were a few years older than Mike, John, and Joe – later to be joined by Katy and Mary, but we all spent countless hours playing together. I especially remember huge softball games in the Kirby back yard. I often babysat Katy and Mary when Mrs. Kirby was leading a Cub Scout meeting, etc. I remember John as being such a happy kid. After moving to Lawrence 20+ years ago, I often saw John’s name and wondered if he were MY John Kirby from Madison St. I thought I should give him a call to check….always thought I’d have time in the future. When I read his obituary this morning, it was confirmed that – yes – he was my old playmate. I can’t begin to imagine how much his passing must make all of your hearts ache. I’m so sorry for this huge loss. Sending prayers over your way.
Dear Carolyn, Lora and family,
I was so saddened to hear of John’s passing. I am so sorry for your loss.
I have many fond memories of visiting with John & Carolyn over the years.
May you find peace and
comfort in all your beautiful
memories.
Carolyn, When I read a small piece in the paper that had JOHN KIRBYS NAME LISTED as a victim I THOUGHT NO-IMPOSSIBLE But against all hope in todays paper showed me it was true- SO SORRY-John was one of the best humans I EVER KNEW DAMN IT ALL DOUG VICKERS
To the family:
I am so sad to learn of John’s tragic passing. It’s especially hard given my career and continued efforts to remove impaired drivers from our roadway. Keeping you all in our prayers.
Carolyn and family, I had worked with John at Farm Bureau for many years and he always had a smile on his face. Such a jolly person. I could not believe it was his name in the paper, the victim of that tragic accident. A special hello to Chris and Andy, I have not seen them for years. May, the entire family know I am thinking of all, at this trying time.
Dear Carolyn and Family,
We just learned of John’s tragic passing, and send our deepest sympathies. We always enjoyed talking and joking with John over the years. Keeping you in our prayers; may your memories bring you comfort.
Dear Carolyn,
My most heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. I know you ask yourself a hundred times, “why”. There just isn’t an answer. I am so sorry.
Dear Carolyn and family. I am so sorry for your loss. John was always willing to help Lloyd and I. He even came to see me at Lloyd’s visitation and he brightened my evening. I will always remember him and you! You two were the best!@
We are so saddened at the loss of John! He was such a joy to visit with and will be sorely missed by many many people. Our thoughts our with your family at this tragic time.
My wife and I with my sister Vicki and husband John Miller and our whole family want to make sure Johns entire family knows how much we are so saddened to hear of his passing. We all loved him. And admittedly and unfortunately as it is we did not have the chance to visit or even spend as much time together as we wanted. But when we did he always had a joke, tale or life story to tell. He was a master of the conversation. Always laughing and having a great time. John was quite the conversationalist. I admired him for that. His laughter and his presence was infectious. Just a joy to be around. John was always concerned about us and how we were doing during those times we missed together. I also know how much he loved his family. It was so obvious in so many ways. Vicki and I pray for our dear cousin Carolyn. And her whole family. There are no easy words . We hope you all stay strong for one another. I have no doubt this will happen as I know you all too well. You are all in our hearts and prayers. Rest In Peace John , stay golden brother . Your presence will always be with us.
My heart sank when I heard about the tragic accident. John was a wonderful soul who graced us with his positivity and awesome smile. My daughter played softball with Erin. He was very encouraging to all of the girls on the team.. John and Carolyn were so proud of their grandchildren. Carolyn and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Peace be with you now.
Carolyn and family! Clyde and I have thought about you all numerous times over the past few weeks and what you are going through currently! We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. We always enjoyed visiting with you and John!
Carolyn and family,
Rodger and I were shocked and sad about this horrible tragedy and loss. You and John have always been such caring and loving people to so many. As you, somehow move forward, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Carolyn, Steve and Family, David and I are so sad to hear of losing John; and send our condolences to you and your family. John shared his love of life, and supported our families through his work. He will be missed by our community and all who knew his quick wit, optimism and wisdom.
Dear Carolyn and family,
John was my insurance agent for so many years, I always enjoyed talking to him and catching up on his life. He was so positive and full of life. I am so sorry for your loss, I know he will be missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with your family
Carolyn-Gerald and I are so sorry to hear about John’s passing. Please know we are thinking about you and your family.
Carolyn, I am very sorry to hear of John’s passing. Please accept my condolences.
Maelyne Rider Schultz, Billings, Montana
Dear Carolyn and family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the tragic loss of John. Please saty strong together and take comfort in the memories you have enjoyed.
Sending specific prayers of peace to all of you.
Dear Kirby Family, John was one of the very best people on the planet. We will miss him tremendously. We are so very sorry for your tragic loss. A loss for all who knew him. Love you all.
So sorry to hear of this tragic loss of my little grand daughter Jordyn’s Grandfather. I know Erin and Jordyn loved him so much.
So sorry for your great loss.
Dear Carolyn & Family – have thought about you and yours many times over the years. So sorry to hear of John’s tragic death, actually just found out today. Lost Dean a couple years ago. I am so sorry!!!
Sorry to hear about John’s passing. You are in my prayers. Lots of Love.
Hello Carolyn and Kirby Family:
My name is Amber King and I am a victim advocate for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in Kansas. I am so very sorry that John was stolen from you. This is a horrific, life-altering tragedy and there are no words that can undo the sorrow. But please do not walk this difficult path without support. A few of the services I can be available for include: emotional support, material on traumatic loss and grief, support with navigating the criminal legal system, court accompaniment, and assistance with crime victims compensation. Please don’t hesitate to contact me however is easiest for you. My email is Amber.King@madd.org and my phone number is 785-367-4520 Ext.2002.
On behalf of MADD Kansas, I would also like to thank you for donating contributions in John’s name to Mothers Against Drunk Driving. This money will be used to help victims throughout our state within their healing process and we cannot thank you enough for your support.
Wishing your family peace and comfort,
Amber King
MADD