James "Buddy" Norman Kirby

Buddy grew up in his beloved hometown of Drayton Mill in Spartanburg, S.C. After graduation from Spartanburg High School, he joined the U.S. Navy and served on a diesel submarine during the Korean War. He met and married Shirley Taylor during this time. They were married for 70 1/2 years at the time of his passing.

After service, Buddy attended Wofford College and graduated in 1961. A time in education, followed by work in Human Resources, lead Buddy to pursue a master’s degree in hospital administration from Duke University. A career as a hospital administrator followed.

Buddy then changed course to pursue a career in business following his lifelong entrepreneurial passion. He founded Lexicode Corporation and grew the firm into a national medical record audit and staffing company. He retired in 2001 after selling Lexicode in 2000.

He and his adored wife, a registered nurse, worked together, traveled extensively, enjoyed their second homes at Edisto Beach, S.C. and Tryon, N.C. They also shared a passion for Wofford College where they visited often, attending athletic events and supporting the College with endowed scholarships and serving on Athletics and Alumni Boards. They were jointly selected to the Wofford College Athletics Hall of Fame for their support.

Buddy is survived by his wife, Shirley; his daughter, Gayle Whitehead (Mitchell); son, Kim Kirby (Janie); grandchildren, Michael Whitehead, Kimberly Moses (Scott) and James Kirby; great-grandchildren, Lucas Canup and Sheylin Moses; his brother, Gene (Ginger). He was preceded by James Luther (father) and Essie Elovia (mother), Dorothy (sister) and Ray (brother). He was also blessed with many nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 13, 2025 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel in Irmo S.C. A service will be held at Lake Murray Presbyterian Church in Chapin, S.C. on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, starting at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Bush River Garden Cemetery in Columbia, S.C.

Buddy lived a full life. He was a loyal friend to many. He will be missed greatly. God bless this man and his life.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.