He was born on February 1, 1937, in Westport, Kentucky to the late William Howard Sr. and Alice Wheeler Kirby.
Billy was a proud US Marine, retiring from active duty in 1974. Upon moving back home to Kentucky he worked for Bunton Company.
He was a lifetime member of Marine Corp League, loved fishing, and a good meal at Our Best in Smithfield. Billy also enjoyed a trip to Belterra. Above all, he loved being around his family and going to Westport to sit by the river.
He is preceded in death by his granddaughter, Brandy Kirby and sisters, Dottie Brown and Ruth Ann Miller.
Left to cherish the memory of Billy are his wife of 64 years, Pat Kirby; children, Rick Kirby (Thersa), Timothy Kirby, and Stephanie Cooper (James); 2 grandchildren, Derek Kirby and McKenzie Cooper; great-grandson, Brandon Kirby; Marine Corp Family, extended family, and many friends.
A celebration of Billy's life will be held at Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home, 706 W Jefferson St, LaGrange on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 11am with full military honors to follow in Valley of Rest Cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday evening from 4-8 pm at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Billy's name to the Wounded Warrior Project.
