John J. Kirby, formerly of Norwich, passed away on January 20, 2019, in Sheffield, Alabama. He was a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U. S. Army, having graduated from the U. S. Military Academy at West Point in 1962. Jay served 23 years in the U. S. Army, including two tours in Vietnam, and was a decorated combat veteran.
Jay, or as he was known in his younger years, J. J., grew up at 115 North Broad St. and graduated from Norwich High School with the class of 1956. He was born on December 28, 1938, the son of John J. and Virginia (Dunne) Kirby. He was the grandson of William H. Dunne, founder of the W. H. Dunne Co. and the Victory Chain, and Grace Moore Dunne.
On June 16, 1962, he married Helene Smith, and together they had four children. He is survived by his children, John J. “Sean” Kirby IV, Timothy (Lucy) Kirby, Virginia Marit (Troy) Klein, brothers William Kirby and Thomas Fiori, and several grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Helene in 2017, his daughter Grace Elizabeth Kirby in 2003, and his sister Judy Gallagher in 1982.
On February 9 in Highwood, Illinois, Catholic services and Military Honors were conducted and interment followed at Fort Sheridan Cemetery, Highwood.