Buffalo, IL — Donald Curtis Kirby was born August 31, 1956, the third son of Donald (Bo) Earl Kirby and Esther Mae (Patton) Kirby. On June 16, 1979, he married Jacquelyn Watkins. He was proceeded in death by his parents and a brother, Alan.
Donnie farmed for many years alongside his father, Bo. You would always see Donnie and Bo running their farm errands with one or more kids in tow.
Donnie loved the land, the history of it and nature surrounding him. He loved sharing his experiences and the curiosity of nature with his children. He was known for bringing home box turtles, tadpoles, kittens and chicken eggs for his children to raise.
Most of all, Donnie loved his family, children and grandchildren. One summer he created an entire backyard amusement park to entertain all kids of the neighborhood. The Kirby Family created Frog Day, a silly holiday in which they celebrated their love for each other.
He is survived by his wife, Jacquelyn; children: Alicia (Jaysen) Norris of Chatham, Airica (Michael) Liscio of Atlanta, GA, Amelia Kirby (Graham McCombs) of Springfield and Andrew Kirby of Buffalo; and grandchildren: David, Fern, June and Jack Norris and Joseph and Kate Liscio.
In retirement Donald could not be slowed down and enjoyed his retirement job driving a mail route for Quicksilver. Donald was also a collector of plants. He had many interesting and impressive plants including his prized yellow peony. He loved to garden and spend time with his son, Andrew. He was generous with his plants, advice, expertise and time.
He was always up for an adventure, on the weekends you could find him traveling all over the Midwest with his wife of 47 years, Jacquelyn. They loved to road trip, see unusual things and try new foods.
He was quick to make a friend with his kind eyes and joyful smile. He was adored by his nieces, nephews, friends, coworkers and community but most of all by his children and grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests for gifts to be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Peasley Funeral Home of Lincoln is assisting the family with arrangements.