Donald Leroy Irby

Donald was born on December 28, 1939, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Walter "Jack" and Ruth Leone (Fisher) Irby. He graduated from Westport High School before enlisting in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country for four years.

After his military service, Don dedicated 32 years to the Kansas City Fire Department, spending much of his career at Station 10. He believed in hard work, took pride in doing a job well and valued the responsibility that came with serving others.

When he wasn't working, Don enjoyed the outdoors. He loved fishing, hunting and spending time at the lake. He spent part of his retirement at the Lake of the Ozarks before eventually returning to Kansas City.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Ruth Irby, his brother Jerry Irby, his stepmother LaVonne Irby, his son-in-law Don Browning and his great-grandson Chase Hernandez.

He is survived by his children Kimberly, Gabrielle, Daryl and Sara; eight grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and his dog, Lady.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Adam James, both at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Road, Gladstone, Missouri 64119. All are welcome to honor Don and his life spent helping others.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kansas City Fire Fighters Local 42 in honor of Don's many years of service alongside his fellow firefighters.

The family extends their gratitude to the nurses of NorthCare Hospice for the care and support shown to Don and his family.