January 10, 2026, 79, Grantham – Kirby Iredelle Stevens, 79, of Grantham, NC, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Born June 1, 1946, to Lewis McDonald Stevens and Bessie “Helen” Thompson Stevens, Kirby grew up with a love for animals that lasted his entire life. He enjoyed caring for them and often bought, sold, and traded animals throughout the years.
Kirby was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and served his country from 1966 to 1969. After his service, he returned to Grantham and worked various jobs before becoming a familiar face in the Grantham community as a dedicated rural mail carrier. Known to many simply as “Grantham’s mailman,” Kirby served faithfully for over 40 years, retiring at the age of 76. He also earned his auctioneer’s license and occasionally showcased his talents at local animal auctions and church auctions.
A devoted member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Newton Grove, Kirby lived a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Carolyn Cabana Stevens; daughter, Dawn Stevens Cox and her husband, Jimmy; son, Adam Stevens and his wife, Leslie; grandchildren, Matthew Cox, Melissa Cox Whitt and her husband, Alex, Monica Cox, Alexandria Stevens and William Stevens; and great-granddaughter, Ivey Jo Whitt. He is also survived by his sister, Sara Herring.
The family will receive friends on Friday, January 16, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 pm at Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Newton Grove, NC. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church or a charity of your choice in his memory.
Kirby will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures. He leaves behind a legacy of love for his family and friends and a dedicated service to his community that will never be forgotten.
The family is in the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.
