Gary L. Kirby

Gary L. Kirby, 71, passed away in Rockford on August 10, 2022. Born in Rockford on April 27, 1951, son to Owen and Willa (McDonald) Kirby. Gary dedicated most of his life to the trucking industry; he worked at R.L. Leek Industries for 25 years until finishing his career after 12 years at FAB Express. When he was off road he enjoyed his time at home perfecting his chicken and dressing recipe, or cooking pots of beans. He also enjoyed spending time going through prayers and verses circling them when they reminded him of people he cared for. Gary enjoyed history, he collected family documents, coins, ships and lighthouses, also anything he could find that was Native American. Anybody that knew Gary knew that he was a kind man and will be missed by all.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his children Angela (Dirk) Allen, Darrell (Kellee) Kirby and Shaun (Amanda) Kirby; grandchildren Jarrett Allen, Brandon, Brianna (Jake) Martin, Bailee (Gavin Thomas), J.D., Marlee, and Lucy Kirby; his sister Deborah Kearby; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and special mention to Delores (Leon) Pruitt and their daughter Leslie Mandzen for the care and love they always shared with Gary; last but not least Gary will be missed by his beloved cat, Buddy. He is predeceased by his parents and sister, Loretta Nelson.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date, cremation rites have been accorded with Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com