Milton James Kirby, Sr., 86, passed away Thursday, April 12, 2012, in Wichita Falls, Texas. Graveside services will be held 4 p.m. Sunday, April 15, in the Mills Cemetery, Garland, Texas. The family will be at Lunn’s Colonial Funeral Home Saturday evening 5 to 7 p.m. for visitation.
Milton served his country in the U.S. Navy, a veteran of World War II.
He was also a member of the ELK’s, the VFW, American Legion, and the Texas Teachers’ Association. He received his Bachelor’s degree from what is now Midwestern State University, his Master’s degree from Sul Ross State and was six hours away from his doctorate. Recruited into the teaching profession by D.L. Ligon, in 33 years, he served in various positions ranging from Science Teacher to Principal to Superintendent to Director of Special Education Region One at his retirement. His main accomplishment was being on the founding team in the creation of Special Education in the Texas School System.
He was preceded in death by his wife Lillian Bohac Kirby in 1981 and his second wife Ellie Settles Kirby in 2006.
Survivors include his son, Milton Kirby, Jr. and wife Debra of Wichita Falls; grandchildren, Charles Clint Kirby II, John Austin Kirby, Jay Leird, Brooke Leird, and Corey Leird; as well as the extended family of Ellie Settles Kirby, including the families of Billy Settles, Merle Jean Hughes, and the late Robbie Settles.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lunnscolonial.com.
