Robert "Bob" Lewis Irby

Bob Irby, age 78, passed away on August 28, 2025 at Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach, SC. He was born in Charlotte, NC to John Lewis Irby and Virginia Torrence Irby on January 14, 1947. He grew up in Charlotte where he spent much of his young life playing baseball. With the support & coaching of his father, he became an outstanding 2nd baseman. He was a member of the memorable Charlotte Post 9 team that in 4 consecutive years finished 3rd in the Pony League World Series, 1st in the Babe Ruth World Series, 2nd in the American Legion World Series, and in the 4th year, won the American Legion World Series. Bob remained a huge sports fan but he was especially devoted to the Carolina Panthers & Atlanta Braves.

Bob spent his working career as a sports equipment rep with Nike & Omega Sports but longed for the time he could retire and move to the beach - the place he loved most. After the death of his long-time companion, Lucy Butler, he moved from Charlotte to North Myrtle Beach where he resided until his death. In the words of his favorite entertainer, Jimmy Buffett, he “discovered in family and friends a treasure more valuable than gold,” and in his musical lyrics, “Some of it’s magic and some of it’s tragic, but I had a good life all the way.”

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Doug Irby; Bob’s beloved companion of 29 years, Lucy Butler. He is survived by a brother, Jim Irby & wife, Sharon of Raleigh; a daughter, Robin Payne; devoted daughters of Lucy: Lisa Kersey, Laura Butler, and Jo Lynn Barksdale, as well as many friends in both Charlotte and Myrtle Beach.

Family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00pm on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at McEwen Funeral Service - Mint Hill Chapel, 7428 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227. A memorial service will follow at 3:00pm.

There will be a memorial service in North Myrtle Beach at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to an animal shelter or a charity of your choice.