Douglas “Doug” Kirby

Douglas Neal Kirby, 74, of Covington, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, September 20, 2025. He was born on September 27, 1950, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

A 1968 graduate of East Jefferson High School, Doug went on to study electrical engineering at the University of New Orleans, where he was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. After working in engineering for several years, he then built a successful career in life insurance and long-term care insurance sales at Ozark National Life Insurance Company, A.L. Williams, and later John Hancock Life Insurance Company.

Outside of work, Doug found joy in time spent with his family, especially fishing, boating, and watching New Orleans Saints football games together. He was a member of St. Timothy on the Northshore Methodist Church.

Doug is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Karla Gilmore Kirby; his children, Neal Kirby (Scott Baldes) of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Allison Kirby Gaines (Daniel) of Metairie, Louisiana; and his cherished granddaughters, Madison Gaines and Caroline Gaines. He is also survived by two brothers, Clifton Kirby Jr. (Sharon) of Huntsville, Alabama, and Larry Kirby (Marci) of Gonzales, Louisiana; along with many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifton Al Kirby Sr. and Olive Cason Kirby, and sister, Carolyn Kirby Weldon (Bob).

Doug will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his friendships, and the warmth he shared with everyone who knew him. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, Papa, and friend. Doug's presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Inspired Living at Kenner, East Jefferson General Hospital and Care Associates for their loving care.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend services on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Drive, Metairie, Louisiana 70001. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 12:00 p.m. A private burial will take place later at St. Timothy Memorial Garden in Mandeville, Louisiana.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doug's honor to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at NAMI.org/donate.