Dr. F. Hugh Kirby, 86, of Hartwell passed away on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

He was the son of the late Joe C. Kirby and Vernie D. Kirby of Drayton, SC.  He was preceded in death by his sister, Jean K. Brown of Greenville, SC.

A life-long learner, Hugh earned degrees from Furman University, Southern Theological Seminary and Columbia Theological Seminary.

His ministry of 66 years included service at First Baptist Church, Greenville, SC; Victory Memorial Baptist Church, Louisville, KY; Grace Baptist Church, Richmond, VA; First Baptist Church, Raleigh, NC; Dunwoody Baptist Church, Dunwoody, GA; Calvary Baptist Church, West Lafayette, IN; First Baptist Church, Hartwell, GA; Hartwell First Methodist Church, Hartwell, GA.

Hugh is survived by his wife: Deane O. Kirby; daughter: Kelly K. Shock (Joel) of Lamoni, Iowa; son: Cory O. Kirby (April) of Flowery Branch, GA; brother: Dann C. Kirby of Greenville, SC; seven grandchildren:  Owen, JD and Brenton Shrock and Carlyn, Callie, Baleigh & Brindley Kirby.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26, at the Hartwell First Methodist Church.  Dr. Allen Stewart, Dr. Michael Helms and Rev. Charlie Wilson will officiate. A reception will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Music Fund for New Hymnals, Hartwell First Methodist Church, 200 East Howell Street, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.