PFC Justin Candido Kirby

US Army PFC Justin C. Kirby, age 21 of New Bedford died, Monday, March 9, 2020 while taking part in an exercise within the center’s training grounds at Fort Irwin National Training Center in California.

Justin was born in Brockton, MA, the son of Patricia (Cox) Kirby of New Bedford and Robert J. Kirby and his wife Dawn of New Bedford. He was a graduate of the Global Learning Charter Public School in New Bedford, Class of 2016 and earned his Associates Degree with honors in Fire Science from Bristol Community College in December 2018.

Justin enjoyed working at Pa Raffa’s in New Bedford while in high school and college. Upon his college graduation, Justin enlisted in the United States Army in January of 2019.

Justin, was an Instructor at the Community Boating Center in New Bedford for several years, a summer job he truly enjoyed. He had a love for music and attending concerts, even taking days to drive to see a particular artist. Justin also enjoyed wrestling and boxing.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his twin brother Jason D. Kirby of New Bedford, his older brother Richard A. Kirby of S. Dartmouth, a sister Angela Russano and two older brothers in Florida and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Justin was predeceased by his paternal grandparents William F. and Georgette M. Kirby and his maternal grandmother Cecelia A. Cox.

A Private Burial with Military Honors will take place in Sacred Heart Cemetery, in New Bedford. Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to Mobile Ministries New Bedford, c/o St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 884 Kempton St., New Bedford, MA 02740. Mobile Ministries is a social outreach ministry, which assists, veterans, homeless and indigent working poor. During these difficult times, please show your support for Justin’s family, by sending them messages and tributes through our website, www.rock-funeralhome.com Please refer to our website or the Standard Times with up and coming service information.