Roger Kirby passed peacefully surrounded by family on January 20,2025 in Kansas City, Kansas. He was born on October 18, 1941 in Columbus, Ohio and spend most of his childhood in Ogden, Utah. In 1955, he moved to Carthage, Missouri and was a member of the class of 1959. While in high school, he participated in track and football.
After being stationed with the United States Air Force in Germany (1962-1965), he attended Joplin Junior College and Pittsburg State. He obtained a Physical Education degree from Missouri Valley College in 1970. In 1978, he received a Master’s degree from Pittsburg State University.
Coach Kirby taught at Carthage Junior High School. He was the first high school wrestling coach at Carthage High School (1972-1982). He was a high school football coach, a baseball coach and track coach. After his coaching days, Coach was a MSHSAA starter for Cross Country and Track for forty years. He started several state high school track meets in Jefferson City. He kept the clock at the CHS football and basketball games for forty years.
During retirement, he enjoyed going to St. Louis and Springfield Cardinals games and watching the Kansas City Chiefs. Roger and Mary attended number Air Force Reunions for the 603 AC&W Squad. They hosted the reunions in St. Louis, Kansas City and Branson.
Roger was an avid runner and walker. He kept a log of his miles. The final total from the last log is 45,331 miles.
Coach is survived by his wife, Mary (Hubler) and they were married for 57 years. He is survived by his son Christopher Kirby, Kansas City, Missouri, daughter Keri Kirby, Carthage and several close friends (that are family).
We would like to thank the staff and doctors at the University of Kansas Medical System for their excellent care of Roger the past few weeks.
Services will be held at Grace Episcopal Church, Carthage, on Friday, January 24th at 2:00 pm. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the church. Burial will be at Fasken Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Carthage Crisis Center in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
