Elvie L. Kirby Jr., the beloved son of the late Rev. and Mrs. Elvie Kirby Sr., was born in High Point, North Carolina on May 26, 1933. He peacefully departed this life on June 13, 2024.

Elvie Jr. received his education at the public schools in Reidsville, North Carolina, where he displayed remarkable dedication to his studies. He graduated with honors from Booker T. Washington High School in the same city, a testament to his academic prowess and commitment to excellence.

His pursuit of higher education led him to Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Amid his academic pursuits, Elvie Jr. answered the call to serve his country and was drafted into the U.S. Army, dedicating three years of his life during peacetime.

Following his military service, Elvie Jr. continued his educational endeavors, earning a Master of Science in Library Service degree from Atlanta University, with further studies at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, Illinois, and Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. In the mid-1960s, he joined the faculty of Albany State College, now Albany State University, serving as Cataloging Librarian and Interim Director of Institutional Research. During his tenure, he actively participated in various committees and professional organizations demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence and community service. He was a member of the Georgia Library Association, the American Library Association, a charter member of the ASU Rams Booster Club, a staunch supporter of the ASU Foundation, and a dedicated member of the ASU Quarterback Club.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Elvie Jr. dedicated himself to serving his community. He served six years as a member of the Albany Dougherty County Jury Commission and the Dougherty County Juvenile Court Review Panel, contributing to the betterment of the legal system and the lives of young people.

Throughout his life, Elvie Jr. was known for his sharp wit, unwavering integrity, kindness, and devotion to his family, profession, and community. He touched the lives of many with his warm smile and compassionate heart.

To cherish his memories, he leaves his wife of 59 years, Mrs. Bobbie Bruton Kirby; his sons, Raphael A. Kirby, Sr. (Andre) of Albany, Georgia, and Durante Kirby (Maria) of Atlanta, Georgia; his dear cousin, Danny Meachum of Atlanta, Georgia; his grandchildren, Artez, Thai, Amelia, Alicia, Miles, and Mason and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, friends and neighbors.