James Thomas “Tommy” Kirby Sr.

Tommy was born on August 19th, 1935 in Wilson, NC to Carl M. Kirby and Edith Wells Kirby. He graduated from Charles L. Coon High School in Wilson and then attended the University of North Carolina, graduating in 1958 with a degree in Pharmacy.

Tommy, along with his brother, Carl “Moe” M. Kirby, Jr. moved from Wilson to Southport, NC in the late 1950’s and opened Kirby Prescription Center, where they both worked until 1975, at which time, Tommy moved his family to Florida, eventually settling in Brooksville in 1976. After working as a pharmacist at Lykes Memorial Hospital in Brooksville, Tommy opened Floral City Pharmacy, which he operated until he sold the business to Eckerd Drugs in 1998. After retiring, Tommy worked part time for his good friend, Joe Rey, at Brooksville Drug, for another 10 years.

Tommy was always very involved with sports. He was a huge UNC Tar Heel fan and loved attending sporting events. He was an avid golfer, loved everything about the game, especially the camaraderie, the stories shared, and the friendships he made that lasted a lifetime.

Tommy is survived by the greatest source of pride and joy in his life — his family. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter & son-in-law: Krista Kirby Singleton & Bob of Tampa, his son & daughter-in-law: James “Tom” Thomas Kirby, Jr. & Angie of Brookville, as well as his cherished granddaughter, Katie Kirby Singleton, who held an especially special place in his heart as his one and only grandchild. Tommy never missed an opportunity to brag about his children and the lives they built, and he was immensely proud not only of their accomplishments, but of the kind, loving people they became. He adored Bob and Angie as if they were his own children and could not have been happier with the families his children created.

Tommy's family will receive friends for refreshments, memories, and stories at the Brooksville Country Club, to honor a life well lived; date and time to be announced.

Inurnment will be at Montlawn Memorial Park in Raleigh, NC at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials or donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.