Ray Cephus Kirby Jr.

Ray C. Kirby Jr. was born on July 2, 1942, and passed away on February 3, 2026 in Bastrop, Texas.

Ray was a hardworking man who spent much of his life as a truck driver, traveling countless miles and seeing many places. Of all the roads he traveled, his favorite place was Pennsylvania, yet he always said there was no place like home - Texas held his heart.

As the oldest child of James E. McMarion and Annie Bell McMarion, Ray learned patience early in life. That patience served him well as the only boy among nine girls. Though he and his sisters did not always see eye to eye, family was everything to Ray. The bond they shared, rooted in the values taught by their parents, remained unbreakable. No matter what, they stood by one another. 

Ray was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Jackson-Kirby; his son, Stanley Kirby; his father, Ray C. Kirby Sr.; his mother, Annie Bell McMarion, his stepfather, James E. McMarion; his sisters, Bertha McMarion and Lilly McMarion Worlds; and several nieces and nephews. 

He is survived by his seven sisters: Annie, Catherine, Christine, Angel Thomas and her husband Daniel, Gladys, Gussie, and Hope Aldridge and her husband Harrison; his grandchildren; and a large circle of nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory. 

Ray will be remembered for his strength, his dedication to family, and the steady presence he provided to those who loved him. Though he was taken his final journey, the love, lessons, and laughter he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of his family. 

Rest peacefully, Ray - your road may have ended, but your legacy rides on forever.