Bill Kirby

Billy Eugene "Bill" Kirby, 87, of Paris, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on February 12, 1938, in Paris, Texas, to Fred and Jennie (Bybee) Kirby, Bill lived a full and meaningful life defined by integrity, warmth, and a deep devotion to those he loved. Over the years, he built lasting friendships and touched countless lives. He never met a stranger, was always ready with a story to make you laugh, and was quick to lend a helping hand.

A graduate of Paris High School, class of 1956, Bill went on to earn a degree from North Texas State in 1960, becoming the first in his family to graduate from college. He was a member of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity and served his country honorably in the National Guard for many years.
Bill built a successful career as an independent insurance agent, establishing and running his own agency. Clients respected him not only for his professionalism but for his generosity and strong work ethic. A lifelong golfer, he found great joy playing with his friends and patiently teaching his daughter and grandchildren how to play. He was a longtime member of several country clubs over the years, including Hurricane Creek Country Club, Eldorado Country Club, and the Paris Golf & Country Club, where he built friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Faith played a central role in Bill's life. A devoted member of the Church of the Holy Cross in Paris, he served faithfully as an usher – often alongside his lifelong friend Tommy Haynes – and as a Senior Warden of the parish. His quiet but unwavering commitment to his faith was just one of the many ways he gave himself to others.

Above all, Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His greatest pride and deepest joy came from his family. He loved them fiercely and supported them unconditionally. Whether sharing stories that brought laughter, offering wise counsel, or simply being present, Bill had a way of making those around him feel loved and valued. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, generosity and service that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Bill will be deeply missed and forever remembered with gratitude and affection.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Dennie Kirby; beloved daughter, Elizabeth Kirby Fuller; grandchildren, Olivia Benja-Athon (Anthony) and John "Jack" Fuller; sister, Gloria (Kirby) Abbett; nephews, Jay Kirby (Carrie), Justin Kirby (Mindy), Fred Brown (Brenda), and Rick Richards; and nieces, Karol Rasor, Kathy Thompson (Rodney), and Robin Stewart (Marcus); stepson, Richard Benners; step-granddaughters, Lori Bedolla (Jose "Tony"), Jamie Johnson (Shawn)and Rebecca Benners; and step-grandsons, Dennis Benners Jr., Jordan Benners (Lacee) and Joshua Benners (Marissa); and step-great-grandchildren, Mia Hernandez, Christian Hernandez, Micaela Hernandez, Rhys Johnson, Paige Hammonds, Asher Benners, Scarlett Benners, Delilah Benners, Eloise Benners, Cecilia Benners, and Skylan Bermudez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Robert Joe Kirby and Jimmy Fred Kirby; sisters, Margie (Kirby) Greenand Mary Frances (Kirby) Brown; nephew Ken Green; brothers-in-law, Spencer Abbett, Troy Rasor and Karl Brown and stepson Dennis Benners, Sr.

A visitation celebrating Bill's life will be held at Fry-Gibbs Funeral Home on Friday, October 3rd, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the Church of the Holy Cross on Saturday, October 4th, at 11 a.m. followed by a reception at Paris Golf & Country Club. There will be a private family interment in the columbarium at the Church of the Holy Cross after the service.