Terence "PawPaw" Kirby

Age, 67, went to live with Jesus on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. A service will take place at 1:00 pm on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services, 1194 E. Mt. Morris Rd. Mt. Morris, MI. Terence’s family will be present to receive friends on Wednesday July 1, 2026 from 11:30 am until 6:30 pm. Cremation will follow. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Terence’s tribute wall at martinfuneralhome.com.

Terence Michael "Terry" Kirby was born on August 22, 1958, in Flint, Michigan, to James and Norma (Lewis) Kirby. Terry graduated from Beecher High School in 1976 and went on to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps as a corporal and electrician. He served on active duty from 1976 to 1980 and remained in the Marine Corps Reserve until 1982. During his military service, Terry earned the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge and the Good Conduct Medal, honors of which he was deeply proud. In 1985, he went on to obtain his journeyman’s license while working for General Motors as a machine repairman.

On May 16, 1981, Terry married the love of his life, Ruth, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Flint. Together they shared 45 wonderful years of marriage built on faith, love, and devotion. Their family grew with the birth of their son, Andrew, on May 22, 1983, and their daughter, Mary, on February 5, 1986.

Terry loved Jesus above all else. He deeply adored his wife and cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. Music was one of his greatest passions. He loved playing his keyboards, serving as a praise and worship leader, and performing with local bands. Many treasured memories were made sitting on the porch with his guitar, strumming away and creating silly songs that brought smiles to those around him.

Terry also found great joy in his faithful dog, Carly, who brought him endless happiness and companionship. He was incredibly proud of his service in the United States Marine Corps and carried that pride throughout his life. Whether spending time in nature, fishing, or simply enjoying God's creation, Terry embraced every adventure with gratitude and enthusiasm.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Terry quietly shared the love of his Lord and Savior through kindness, acceptance, and compassion. He met people where they were in life and reflected Christ's love through his actions more than his words. His gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and loving heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Terry is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; his daughter, Mary (Joe-Joe) Petty; his daughter-in-love, Jenny (Brian) Kindlinger; his siblings, Jim Kirby and Andrea (Chuck) Brannam; his grandchildren, Bree, Garrett, Kenna, Aiden, Creed (estranged), River, Luna, Jacob, Bowen, Lydia, and Stewart; his spiritually adopted children, Tim Wood and Stephanie Griffin; his brothers in-law, James Livingston, Bob (Nancy) Livingston, and Phil (Wendy) Livingston; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Andrew; his brother, David Kirby; his parents, James and Norma Kirby; and his father and mother in-law, Ed and Marion Livingston.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Terry's hospice nurse, Ms. Paula, for the love, compassion, and exceptional care she provided to both Terry and Ruth. She was truly a special gift and a blessing in their journey of honoring life, faith, and the sacred transition into eternity. We love and cherish you, Ms. Paula.

Terry's legacy of faith, love, service, music, and family will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Terry’s obituary was lovingly written by his family.