Kirby was born into a family that moved frequently early in his life. In each new location, his family, in search of a sense of community and a place to grow in the faith, quickly connected with a Presbyterian congregation. His church experience was foundational. 

After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in psychology at Baylor University, he felt called to go to Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond, Virginia, where he obtained a four-year doctor of ministry degree. Over the course of the 39 years since, he has served churches in Memphis, Tennessee, Atlanta, Georgia, Washington, D.C., and most recently, Abington Presbyterian Church. Each call included caring ministries within and beyond the congregation. He views it as a great blessing when people have allowed him to journey with them as they face a variety of joys and challenges.

Years ago, Kirby went on a Presbyterian Peacemaking Program trip to Israel/Palestine, and met the person who would become his wife and soulmate, Nancy Lawrence Hill. They are blessed with a daughter, Grace, who is a second-grade teacher in San Francisco, and a son, Jordan, who does television production work in Philadelphia. Kirby enjoys spending time with family at the beach or enjoying nature while walking their dog, Sophie. He is enriched by a variety of music and live stage productions, enjoys reading history and following Philly sports. He is grateful for the caring community experiences within the church, and joyfully anticipates such expressions of God’s grace going forward.