James "Buddy" W. Kirbie Sr.

James “Buddy” W. Kirbie, Sr., 89, of Gun Barrell City, Texas, peacefully went to be with his Savior, Jesus, on Friday, June 14, 2024. He was known affectionately as "Buddy" by his family and friends. He was a longtime member of First Church of God in Hubbard. Buddy was cherished by all who knew and loved him. His presence brought warmth and joy to everyone he met. 

Born on September 29, 1934, Buddy lived a full and meaningful life marked by his generosity, kindness, and unwavering love for his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and an adoring grandfather, whose legacy will be remembered and treasured by all who knew him.

Buddy's life was a testament to hard work and dedication. He spent many years as business owner as a tilesetter. He then finished out his working years as an employee of the State of Texas. Buddy was well respected and admired by all who had the pleasure to work with him. 

Buddy found immense joy growing his farm that he built with his wife Doris, in Hubbard, Texas. He built a nice home with his own two hands and the door was literally always open to anyone who needed a place to lay their head. His grandchildren spent many summers on his farm building fences, fishing, and learning to care for the garden, cows, pigs and chickens. He loved to can his vegetables and always shared them with his loved ones. His stories and his steadfast humor brought laughter to all. He particularly enjoyed family gatherings as everyone gathered to “pick and sing,” and play cards. Buddy loved to cook, sing, and was always welcoming people into his home for a nice home-cooked meal from his garden. His hospitality was unwavering.  His family will always cherish the road trips and family reunions spent camping at the lake with his loved ones. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Doris of 43 years, who gained her angel wings in January of 2000, his son, James Kirbie, Jr., his son Raymond Kirbie, his brothers and sisters, GD Kirbie; Velma Woodard; Lonnie Kirbie; Gladys Thomas; Margaret Whiteside; Joy Bynum; Shirley Tapp; Stella Clark and grandchild Baby Kirbie.

Those left to cherish Buddy’s memory are his wife Susan Kirbie; his son Danny Kirbie and wife Michelle, his 13 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; numerous nephews, nieces, family and a host of friends.

A memorial service to honor Buddy’s life will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Calvary Baptist Church in Seagoville, Texas, at 10:00am. 

James “Buddy” Kirbie, Sr. will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the countless memories shared by those who were fortunate enough to have known him.