Curtis Melvin Kirby Jr.

Curtis, known as “Kirk” to family and friends, was a retired Army officer who first enlisted in the Army, and later attended Officer Candidates School and graduated from the Army’s Airborne and Ranger courses before serving around the world in a variety of positions. He was proud of his military service and looked forward to his annual reunion of fellow officer candidates.

Following his time in the Army, he embarked on a career in commercial real estate and trust management. He finished his career at Wachovia Bank in Raleigh and settled into a comfortable retirement.

Kirk was the life of the party, relished family gatherings, and enjoyed meeting often with groups of friends. The highlight of his year were trips back to Bedford County, VA, to gather with his extended family at reunions. He was an avid golfer, an enthusiastic Hokies fan, and an acclaimed cook.

His life was characterized by frugality and resourcefulness formed during his humble upbringing. However he was exceedingly generous, especially in his later years, with his time, his money, and his advice. He served in many civic organizations, most notably the Kiwanis Club of Raleigh where he was often found behind the griddle serving for their pancake fundraisers. There wasn’t a request from his children or grandchildren he could refuse, as long as they were willing to endure a hefty dose of practical wisdom and advice.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Charlotte, his brother Tom Kirby, and his daughters Charlotte Koltick and Courtney Kirby. In addition to his four grandchildren, he had many nieces and nephews, who knew him simply as “Papa Kirk.”

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Kirk’s name to the Kiwanis Club of Raleigh.

A funeral service was held Thursday, December 9, 2021 at in The Chapel of Mitchell Funeral Home. Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held on Friday, July 8, 2022 at 2:00pm in Arlington National Cemetery.

If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so below within 'add a memory'.