Rural Fayette, MO resident, Raymond Kirby, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home on January 20, 2025.

Raymond Earl Kirby, affectionately known as “Scrooge” to his family and friends, was born on February 7, 1943 in Howard County, MO.  He was one of 14 children born to the late Robert Glen and Lola Grace (Chandler) Kirby, Sr.  He graduated with the class of 1961 from Fayette High School.  On November 9, 1973, Raymond married Billie Jean Crowley.  The couple recently celebrated 51 years of marriage together.  Raymond farmed his whole life.  He also worked as a switchman for the Norfolk and Western Railroad for around 20 years.  In his spare time, Raymond enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and hunting.  He also had a passion for his red International tractors.  He will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Billie Jean Kirby of Fayette, MO; three children, Allen (Lou Ann) Kirby of Columbia, MO, Kimberly (Matt) Spurgin of Clark, MO and Lisa (David) Asbury of Fayette, MO; eight grandchildren, Alex (Lizzi) Kirby, Anna Kirby, Chad (Brooke) Evans, Kelsey (Fiancé Braden) Evans, Lauren (Cory) Via, Stacy Marshall, Shelby (Austin) Stockhorst and Sydney Asbury; five great-grandchildren, Sutton, Bayler, Abby, Adrian and Tristin; four siblings, R.G. (Marilyn) Kirby of Fayette, MO, Dale (Carol) Kirby of Higbee, MO, Connie Hill of Higbee, MO and Ruth Ann (Richard) Conrow of Fayette, MO.  Raymond is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, Raymond was preceded in death by nine siblings, Bill, Bob, Sam, Buddy Pete, Jimmy Gene, Tom, Roger, Chris “Butch” and Bonnie Sue Baker.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Mr. Kirby will be 2:30 PM, Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Friemonth-Freese Funeral Home in Fayette, with Brian Terrell and Bart Ballew officiating.  Visitation will be held for and hour and half before the service at the funeral home starting at 1 PM.  Inurnment will be held privately at the convenience of the family, at Fayette City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette City Cemetery, c/o Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service, 174 Hwy. 5 & 240 N., Fayette, MO 65248.  Online condolences may be shared at friemonthfreesefuneralservice.com.