January 2, 2023, 85, Goldsboro –

James Stanley Kirby, 85, joined the heavenly choir and received his reward on Monday, January 2, 2023. Born in Wilson County on March 23, 1937, he was the son of the late Worth Kirby and Vera Howell Kirby.

James was given a gift for singing and he used it for the Glory of God. Most of his life was spent traveling and sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ through song. This included being an original member of the group called “The Watchman Quartet,” which started in 1975. He also sang with the group lastly called “Legacy Quartet.” God had placed a song in his heart and he was able to share this with so many. He was ever grateful for this privilege to share his passion for Jesus.

James was a family man. He loved with his whole being and sought to care for his family at all times. God always came first in James’ life and family followed close behind. He knew as long as God was at the center of it all, everything would fall into place.

James not only had a gifted voice, he also was blessed to be able to work with his hands. From farming to construction and handyman work, he always found a way to make things come together. This gave him the opportunity to be outside enjoying God’s good creation and watching things grow. This love for the outdoors grew even more at the beach house. It brought him a joy to be able to host Labor Day cookouts for his friends and family.

Community also had a place in James’ heart. He served on the Wayne County Water Board. He was also an active member of his church, Pleasant Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Vickie Roby: sons, Stanley Kirby and wife, Nancy; Dale Kirby and wife, Jenise; grandchildren, Megan, Andrew, and Payton Kirby; brothers, Joe Kirby, Bruce Kirby, Curtis Kirby; sisters, Virginia Morris, Sandra Thompson; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Melba Aycock Kirby.

A service to celebrate James’ life will be held on Friday, January 6, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at The First Pentecostal Holiness Church in Goldsboro with Pastor Barry Stallings and Pastor Bill Rose to officiate. The family will receive friends following the service. Interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Princeton on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his honor to
Pleasant Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church
1100 Pikeville-Princeton Road
Pikeville, NC 27863

Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.