Thomas Payne Kirby

Thomas Payne Kirby, age 76 of Mooresboro, NC, passed away January 1, 2023 at his home. Tom was born August 23, 1946 in Rutherford County, NC to the late Charles Jackson Kirby and Sara Hedges Kirby.

He was preceded in death by his spouse of 30 years, Rahama Humphries Kirby and a special niece, who was like a daughter to him, Donna English.

He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Jack Kirby and Donnie Kirby and sisters Edna Moss and Esther Hodge and a great niece Karleigh English.

He is survived by a sister, Phyllis Ellenburg, of Forest City and special niece, Lisa (Jeff) Murray of Mooresboro and special nephew Reese (Wendy) English of Mooresboro, great nieces and nephews: Rebecca English, Lucas (Emily) Murray, Bradley English and Lydia (Derek) Skipper and great-great niece Kyleigh Davis and great-great nephews Dawson Murray and Myles Skipper. He is also survived by a special companion of 12 years, Ben, his yorkie. Also, a number of friends and relatives.

Tom was a US Army veteran serving in Vietnam and was the recipient of two Purple Hearts. He worked for Duke Power Cliffside Steam Station for 35 years first as a coal handler and then as an operator. Tom loved bowling and was on a league at Autumn Lanes Bowling Alley.

The family would like to thank Tom's special niece Wendy English for all the care & love she showed Tom over the last few years.

The funeral services will be held Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 3:00 pm at Trinity Baptist Church. The family will be receiving friends from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm. There will be a graveside service following in the church cemetery with military honors accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard. Eggers Funeral Home of Cliffside, NC is serving the family.