Hayes Rudolph Kirby

Mr. Hayes Rudolph Kirby, age 82 of Pittsboro, NC, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at UNC Hospice, Hillsborough, NC.

The Obituary  

“I fought the Good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith”- 2Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

Hayes “Rudolph” Kirby was born in Durham County on September 4, 1943. On Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the age of 82, Rudolph peacefully transitioned from this life while surrounded by care and compassion at UNC Hillsborough Hospice.

Rudolph was educated in the Orange County School System and proudly graduated from Horton High School with the Class of 1961. A man of unwavering faith, he was a devoted member of Union Grove AME Zion Church, where he served faithfully as a Trustee and shared his love of scripture as a Sunday School teacher. He had a lifelong passion for sports, cherished time spent outdoors—especially hunting—and rarely missed an episode of his favorite show, Gunsmoke.

Rudolph was deeply loved by all who knew him. He adored his family and held a special affection for his beloved wife, whom he fondly referred to as “the wife.” He enjoyed gathering with close friends to play his favorite card game, Biz Whiz, any day of the week. He also took great pride in his work and his dump truck, often sharing stories from the road. A dedicated and hardworking man, Rudolph became self‑employed as a painter and operated his own dump truck business for more than 40 years, serving his community with commitment and joy.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Moleta Waddell Freeman; his father, Hayes Kirby; and his brother, Franklin Kirby.

Rudolph leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Louvenia Barber Kirby; his son, Darrell “Buck” Kirby (Tracy) of Snow Camp, NC; his daughter, Aretha Kirby of Jennings, MO; and his step‑son, Donald McIntosh of Bear Creek, NC. He is also survived by his brother, Wayne Freeman (Denise) of Mebane, NC; his grandchildren, Ceionna Kirby, Aniyah Kirby, Donovan Cornell, and Malik Scott; and his great‑grandchildren, Daylon Jones, Bryson Polk, and bonus great‑grandchild Aria Marsh. His bonus grandchildren, Darean Marsh (Chelsea), Kerrah Alston, and Semarah Alston, also hold dear the memories they shared with him. Rudolph leaves behind a host of relatives, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever treasure the love, laughter, and legacy he leaves behind.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the UNC Hillsborough Hospice team for their exceptional care and compassion.

"We do not own copyrights to the background music."   

Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home - Pittsboro, NC