Robert Lee Kirby Jr.'s Obituary
Robert Lee Kirby, 71, of Springdale, Arkansas, peacefully departed this life on December 25, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas, where he was surrounded by his family.
Robert was born on November 21, 1952, to Robert and Bertha (Eller) Kirby in Westwood, California. He joined the United States Air Force upon graduating high school in 1970 and retired after serving over 20 years. He married the love of his life, Chian, in 1975 and to this union, had four children, Timothy, Darlina, Sandra, and Jonathan. Robert and Chian had just celebrated 48 years of marriage.
Robert cherished his family and spending time with loved ones. He especially adored his eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and was proud to be a grandfather. Robert had a host of cherished loved ones that included his aunt, three nieces, one nephew, and cousins. He was known for his sweet spirit and sense of humor and helped to brighten everyone’s day.
Robert was predeceased by his father Robert Kirby; his mother Helen (Eller) Kirby; his brother Billy Wayne Kirby; and great-uncle William Kirby. Robert is survived by his wife, Chian Kirby, son Timothy Kirby and wife Kelly; daughter Darlina Kirby; daughter Sandra Woolard and husband Raymond; and son Jonathan Kirby and wife Camille; grandchildren Charles Watson III, Kelsi Kirby-Henley (Austin), Jasmyne Maury, Julio Maury, Jr., Ethan Drake, Braxton Kirby, Ashlynn Drake, Ambri Kirby, and great-grandchildren Adrian Vega and Jameson Watson.
A memorial service will be held at the Fayetteville National Cemetery with full military honors, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, at 11:30 a.m. on December 29, 2023. Services are provided under the direction of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home and Pastor Clark Snow officiating.
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