Michael Steven Kirby

April 17, 1965 - April 20, 2024

Michael Steven Kirby, 59, of Floyd , passed into the arms of Jesus on April 20, 2024, at his home. His children were by his side.

He was a graduate of Floyd County high school and Radford University, where he majored in classical guitar performance. He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Kirby and his grandparents Earnest and Juanita Cregger Kirby, of Roanoke, Emmitt and Mary Shupe Craghead, Roanoke, Step grandmothers, Dorothy Farmer Kirby, Radford, and Louise Wertz Craghead, Roanoke, aunt, Mary Anne Collins, and a cousin, Mary McNeely. He is survived by his children, Elijah Kirby, Blacksburg, Caroline Kirby, Blacksburg and Savannah, Ga; mother, Adelene Kirby, Floyd; the mother of his children, Katy Mitchell, Blacksburg; uncle, Rodney Kirby, Georgia; numerous cousins, and his dogs Joey and Julie.

Mike’s first priority in life was his children. He took great joy in being with Eli and Caroline and succeeded in being the best dad anyone could ever have had. They were his reason for living. He was very protective of his mother and was a good son.

Mike was known as much for his kindness and ready smile as for his music. He was able to brighten even the gloomiest of situations and make everything that he did fun.

Mike got his first guitar at age ten, stood in front of a mirror playing it for hours and dreaming of becoming a rock star. He played throughout his life with bands such as Yams from Outer Space, Axis, Lather, Train Wreck, and Awesomesauce. He was a founding member of each of these bands. The “Yams” toured the east coast in a rickety old school bus that broke down more than it ran. Mike played with such notable musicians as Dave Matthews, Slash from Guns N’ Roses, and Artimus Pyle of Lynyrd Skynyrd. He and his band released three CD albums containing original songs that they wrote.

Mike was a fan of KISS and delighted in taking his kids to see them in 2020. He fulfilled a lifelong dream by seeing Paul McCarthy perform. He aspired to play guitar as well as Eddie Van Halen, and who is to say that he didn’t?

He was baptized at the age of 17 at Haven’s Chapel Methodist Church, Floyd. He played in a praise band in Atlanta, GA., and led two praise bands in churches in the New River Valley. He had a lifelong and very private relationship with God.

Mike taught music in the New River Valley for 30 years. He loved to share his gift and love of music with others.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Gardner Funeral Home on Thursday April 25, 2024, at 1PM led by Scott Dickens of Richmond. The Celebration will be followed by a graveside service in Jacksonville Cemetery, Floyd. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the Celebration of Life.

All former band mates of Mike’s are invited to serve as honorary pallbearers.

The family wishes to thank the Floyd County Rescue Squad, Skyline Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Good Samaritan Hospice, and Gardner Funeral Home.

My deepest condolences to your entire family. Mike was a huge influence in my life and will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.

I’m so very sorry Mike, the time was too short on this earth but I know you are singing for Jesus now and that eases my heart. My condolences to Elijah, Caroline , Adelene and the rest of the family and the massive following of friends. May you find comfort in peace.

Mike was a good friend, I have lots of good memories, we shared lots of laughs. He will truly be missed. Praying for the family.

Mike was one of the most genuine souls I've ever met! He was always a joy to be around and you felt his joy at everything he did. Truly a remarkable person.

Mike was one of the kindest, sweetest, gentlest men I have ever known. One awesome musician. He was always smiling. He could always assist in getting band practice off track by getting those around him to laugh. I am blessed to have known Mike. Prayers for his family.

Rest in peace.i know him in school a real nice young man.may God bless his family with grace and mercy and peace. 🙏💯

Mike was a good friend of my son, Dan Agnew , who passed away in 2002 . His daughter. Julie used to work for his parents at Farmers Foods grocery store. We all send our love , prayers and deepest sympathy to each of you. With much love, Jeanette Agnew

I met Mike our freshman year at RU. Lived next door to each other one year in the dorm. Stayed in touch off and on over the years and we always picked up where we left off. He even welcomed my son as a freshman at RU too. He was a timeless, wonderful person who left such a mark on this world. I am so proud to have been even a small part of his life. My prayers will continue for his family. God Speed, Sweet Mike Kirby. I love you.

Mike, You were my first guitar student and I knew you would be a great player . Wish I could have played like you. RIP

I'll miss you forever bro. Thank you for everything. You made life, music, bands, fun, you made it all that much better. Thank you for accepting me into your musical brotherhood. Rest in Peace. All my love always my brother!

Mike was my dad’s best friend, all the stories my dad told me Mike was there. A beautifully kind and talented person. We will miss you Mike 🩷

Much love to you Mike! My condolences to your family and friends. Thank you for the countless wonderful memories and for pouring your heart and soul out through your neverending kindness and other-worldly musical talent!

Very sad to hear of the passing of such an incredible person. Mike was pure joy on stage, and that joy permeated every other part of his life. Was glad to be able to soak in his talent in Blacksburg and Radford. Sending peaceful thoughts to his family and band mates. Also, now I am going to go crank up Skip Watts Geology Lab, drink a beer, and reminisce.

Kirby, how you was my main man,At the facility. Always know how much I loved u man, you was my other brother from different mothers. Love always.

We will dance in the next life, Mike. I love you forever. (Trapezoid 💋)

Godspeed, my friend. Rest in peace, Mike.

Will miss you, my friend!!😥 We 1st met in the early early 70's when we were just kids living just a couple yards apart in Roanoke... wow, over 50 years ago. We had a blast!😁 even spending weekends and such in Floyd. Life happened and we drifted apart but kept in contact with each other over the years. Sorry we didn't get together one last time before you left... See you again some day, my friend!! 😎🐄 Terry

Mike was a good friend, and an insperation both musically and as a person, his presence in my life made my life on earth far better. He left us too soon. I wish his family and friends peace, and his spirit will live on in the lives of all those whose lives he touched. Until we cross paths again Mike, safe travels to and on the other side.

Legitimate talent, charisma and a genuine kind soul are a very rare combination. I was honored not only to be a fan and a friend and to have been the producer of one of the Yams excellent albums. Mike, I left Blacksburg before getting to meet your beautiful children but if you have them the same love you gave your art and your friends they are indeed blessed. We kept up through the years on social media and I'm devastated that this corporal world is now without you. Blessings prayers and condolences to your family. Peace.

I knew Raymond and Adelene for years while they operated the grocery business in Floyd -- very fine people. Michael had good role models to follow. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Patty B. Weeks

Mike was one in a million and always had a kind word to say and a laugh to be had by everyone who crossed his path. He was such an old soul and such a bright light. He made everyone feel joy...plus, that glorious hair and beautiful voice...wowza!!!! We had such great times seeing the Yams over the years. I first met him at the Record Exchange and he also went to RU when I was there where we had many mutual friends. I consider myself lucky to have known him and I know he was an amazing Dad to his kids, and son to his momma...cause man he loved his momma! Rest in peace sweet friend. Spread you wings and sprinkle your fairy dust of joy to all. You are missed by all who knew you.

My entire family is saddened by the news. I had the opportunity to reconnect with Mike a few months before he passed. Even In dire straits he shared positive moments, humor and gratitude. Gone but never forgotten.

Condolences to the Kirby family. Mike was a sweet, caring person. He was kind to everyone he met. Rest well Mike. I know you're jamming in Heaven with Daryl Q, J. Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen.

I am so sorry for your loss. The world got a little quieter when Mike passed. He was so loved and will be greatly missed.

Mike's smile and presence could light up the darkest of rooms. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to know him and call him my friend, May God's love provide you all with comfort and strength and may the memories of Mike be a source of light for you.

Mike and I have been friends since the mid-80s. We “worked” together at Mainstream Music for close to 10 years. He was smart, funny, and incredibly creative. Most of all, Mike was a sweetheart of a guy and always a pleasure to be around. Much love to you, my friend. See you on the flip-side ❤️

So sorry that Mike is gone. "Grandmur" always loved to see him and the kids when they visited her at Christmas. I know it’s been hard for you the last few years. All our condolences!

Mike, you had love in your eyes, thoughts,smile,music and friendship. Most of all you let everyone love you. May God welcome you and the love you always have with you.

Mike was one of a kind, a talented, generous, caring spirit. Farewell, friend.

The world needs more of the kindness and silliness that Mike gave us. Miss you friend <3

My deepest condolences Mrs Kirby to you and your family. Mike was an amazing, awesome person. I treasured every moment I spent with him. I hope you know, truly know in your heart, Mike was a shining star. God bless you and your family. Michael Kirby, I loved you so and I will miss you everyday...

Mike was sweet soul who loved to make people smile. We worked together at the library at Radford University. He would always tell interesting stories and ask amusing philosophical quandaries that would leave you pondering for days. Mike also liked to draw his unique caricatures on random columns inside the RU library as an unexpected gift for others to find. You brightened our world Mike. Sending prayers to your family.

My condolences to Mike's family. Mike was my music teacher and friend when I was a student at Virginia Tech. He was a very important influence on many in the New River Valley community. His contributions will never be forgotten. May his beautiful soul rest in peace 🕊️

He was a great and friendly man and I remember him being talented in music. As one of his career roles he helped my daughter who was all set to go to Jefferson College in Roanoke change her major at the last hour and he helped her get into RU at the last minute. He was an extra sweetheart that day and new my husband David Thompson music teacher in Floyd County ar that time! May God Bless your family and I am sure you are playing music in heaven!