William E. "Bill" Kirby Jr., 89, of Worthington, passed away peacefully at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Greene County General Hospital.

He was born August 22, 1937, in Terre Haute, Indiana, the son of William E. Kirby Sr. and Carolyn (Payton) Raves.

Bill worked for most of his life in the coal-mining industry, including at Minnehaha Coal Mine and MX Coal Company. He was a member of the Worthington American Legion, the Linton Elks Lodge, and the United Mine Workers of America.

He was an avid mushroom hunter and enjoyed collecting guns and playing softball. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family and his beloved dog, Duke.

Bill is survived by his son, Michael Kirby (Maryann); grandchildren, Joshua Kirby, Rachel Banek Kirby (Joe), Sarah Saldivar (Jason), Anna Ossewaarde (Brian), and Melanie Kirby; special companion; Wilma Cochran; his sister, Earlene Johnson (James); 10 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; his niece, Jamie Johnson; and his favorite dog, Duke.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Genevieve Kirby; his brother, Tom Kirby; and his stepfather, Barnie Raves.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Welch & Cornett Funeral Home in Worthington, with Pastor John Pierce officiating.

Burial will follow at Worthington Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, at the funeral home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Welch & Cornett Funeral Home of Walton Funeral Service, Inc.

Online condolences may be shared at

www.welchcornett.com