Wilborn Thomas Kirby

Monday, October 19, 2015

Wilborn Thomas Kirby, 76, of Black Oak went to be with The Lord Thursday, Oct. 15, 2015, at his home. He was born May 8, 1939, in Leachville to the late Ethel and George Kirby.

He was a member of Mt. Pleasant General Baptist Church near Monette. Kirby lived in Vail before living in Benton Harbor, Mich., for 38 years and returned to Black Oak afterwards. He was a journeyman plumber and retired from Diversified Plumbing and Electric in Arkansas. He also retired as a volunteer fireman in Black Oak after 15 years of service to his community. He loved hunting and fishing, in addition to being given God's talent of having one of the most beautiful gardens around.

Survivors include his loving wife of 56 years, Vera, of the home; two grandsons and their wives, Jonathan and Taylor Williams of Desha and Scott and Lisa Williams of Black Oak; one great-grandson, Bentley Harper of Black Oak; one son-in-law and wife, Mike and Wayna Williams of Manila; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Terrell Ray and Alberta Kirby and Franklin and Gladys Kirby of Manila; one sister and brother-in-law, Lolita and Everett Mason of Pangburn; one sister, Velma Prince, of Benton Harbor; one nephew who was both like a brother and a life-long friend, James Prince, of Lafe; several additional nieces and nephews; and a special long-time friend, loved as a daughter, Jennie Hill; as well as a host of family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Kirby was preceded in death by one daughter, Janice Stidham; six brothers, Hugh Edward Kirby, William Kirby, Floyd Kirby, Clyde Kirby, J.D. Kirby and Charles Kirby; and three sisters, Levon Kirby, Sissy Loff and Bonnie Kellough.

Visitation was from 2-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette, followed by a service celebrating his life at 3 p.m., led by Bro. Rick Stevens, in the absence of his beloved pastor, Ernest Cornish, who is in the hospital.

Services are under the direction of Gregg Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent in Kirby's memory to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Hwy. 139, Monette 72447.

Online registry: www.mcnabbfuneralhomes.com