David Everett Kirby

David was born July 9, 1932 in Norfolk, VA to the late Charles Clarence Kirby, Sr., and the late Lorean Snider Kirby. David inherited a superb work ethic from his mom, a single mother after his dad died when David was only 7. He will be remembered as a hard worker, someone who loved his family, and a true friend to so many.

David was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Betty Jean Roberts Kirby, a son, David E. Kirby, Jr. (Buster), and a brother, Charles Clarence Kirby, Jr. (Mickey).

David started working at a young age delivering milk for Lakeside Dairy. He graduated from Norview High School and enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, serving aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Chincoteague. After his discharge from the Coast Guard, David enrolled as an Apprentice Plumber and Pipe Fitter and learned the trade working for several local plumbing firms. In 1972, David earned his Master Plumbing License in the City of Norfolk, and opened the doors of D. E. Kirby, Inc. in 1977. David always led by example and became a mentor to countless young men as they navigated the plumbing and HVAC apprenticeship and trade.

David became a Baptist deacon at an early age and most recently was a member of Victory Baptist Church in Virginia Beach.

Raised as a Southern Gentleman, David was an amazing self-taught historian and an avid reader, despite having never stepped into a College Classroom aside from making sure that it was properly heated and cooled.

David was often found on a ball field either as a player, coach, or spectator. He always enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren participate in their team sports and school programs. He was a Past-President of Azalea Little League.

David thoroughly enjoyed playing cards, building puzzles, and celebrating any occasion surrounded by family.

Left to cherish his memory are: son, Robert “Bob” Kirby and wife Michelle of Edenton, NC; daughter, Virginia “Ginny” Pollock and husband Tom of Chesapeake, VA; daughter, Cynthia “Cindy” Bigelow and husband Ronnie of Chesapeake, VA; son, Daniel “Dan” Kirby and wife Beth of Virginia Beach, VA; grandchildren: Alice Kolakowski (Chris), Jennifer Gibbons (Pat), Sarah Kirby, Leanna Lawson (Christopher), Ben Bigelow (Taylor), Wesley Bigelow (Katherine), Curtis Kirby and Stephanie Kirby and four great grandchildren, Amelia, Cayden, Max and Nicholas Gibbons, brother Raymond, and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the compassionate caregivers who helped him during his final years. The family will receive friends on Saturday, 1/30 from 5 to 8 at Victory Baptist Church, 4125 Indian River Rd., VB, VA 23456. A celebration of life will be held at the church on Sunday, 1/31 starting at 2pm by the Rev. Les Smith. Burial will be on Monday, 2/1 at 1pm in Rosewood Memorial Park. Please share your condolences with the family at wwww.kellumfuneralhome.com

Memorial donations may be made to Victory Baptist Church.