Cecil M. Kirby

Cecil M. Kirby, 88, of Freeport, Ill. and former Baileyville, Ill. resident died Thursday in his home. He was born March 9, 1924 in Pleasanthill, New Mexico the son of Clarence and Alma Louise (Harlas) Kirby. Cecil was a United States Navy Veteran from 1942-1946. He served in the South Pacific Theatre. On June 1, 1946 Cecil married Yvonne 'Bonnie' Stuckey in Freeport ,Illinois. Mr. Kirby was a 30 year employee of Burgess- 3 M. He was a member of Baileyville Baptist Church, serving as a trustee for many years. He also served on the Baileyville school board and on the Cranes Grove Cemetery Board. More than anything, Cecil enjoyed being surrounded by his family. In addition to his wife, Cecil is survived by his two sons, Gregory (Linda) Kirby of Troutdale, Oregon and Jeffrey (Rebecka) Kirby of Elkhart, Indiana. His brother, Charles Kirby of Enterprise, Alabama. Five grandchildren; Dustin (Step) Kirby, Joshua (Julie) Kirby, Whitney (Kayln) Brady, Sara Kirby and Lee (Rex) Bennett. Four great-great-grandchildren, Five sisters in law; Carolyn Kirby, Mary Stuckey, Jean Cummins, Madeline (Tom) Hanley and Bernice Hamilton. He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter, Belinda Sue Kirby, his grandson, Derek Lee Kirby, five brothers and three sisters. A funeral service for Mr. Kirby will be Monday, 10:00 A.M. at Baileyville Baptist Church, Rev. Alan Cassel, pastor, will officiate. Visitation will be Sunday, 4:00-6:00 P.M. at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home, Freeport, Ill. Burial will be in Cranes Grove Cemetery, Freeport. A memorial has been established for Baileyville Baptist Church. Please visit www.burketubbs.com to sing the online guestbook.