HR1899: HR1899 Kirby, Dr. F. Hugh; honoring the life and memory; condolences

26 LC 129 1223 House Resolution 1899 By: Representative Powell of the 33rd A RESOLUTION Honoring the life and memory of Dr. F. Hugh Kirby; and for other purposes.1 WHEREAS, we paused with grateful hearts to remember and honor the life and legacy of Dr.2 F. Hugh Kirby, who was born on February 13, 1939, in Drayton, S outh Carolina, and3 departed this earthly life on July 12, 2025, in Hartwell, Georgia; and4 WHEREAS, Dr. Kirby faithfully served as a minister of the gospel for more than 66 years,5 devoting his life to proclaiming God's truth, shepherding His people, and modeling the love6 of Christ through humility, grace, and unwavering faith; and7 WHEREAS, a devoted lifelong learner, who pursued knowledge with passion and purpose,8 earning degrees from Furman university in Greenville, South Carolina; the Southern Baptist9 Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky; and Columbia Theo logical Seminary in10 Atlanta, Georgia, he continually deepened his faith and understanding of God's word; and11 WHEREAS, through his ministry, Dr. Kirby faithfully served many congregations, including12 First Baptist Church in Greenville, South Carolina; Victory Mem orial Baptist Church in13 Louisville, Kentucky; Grace Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia; First Baptist Church in14 Raleigh, North Carolina; Dunwoody Baptist Church in Dunwoody, Georgia; and Hartwell15 H. R. 1899 - 1 - 26 LC 129 1223 First Methodist Church in Hartwell, Georgia, always preaching with passion, compassion,16 and conviction; and17 WHEREAS, he also served as senior pastor of Calvary Baptist Chu rch in West Lafayette,18 Indiana, and Hartwell Baptist Church in Hartwell, Georgia, where his leadership, vision, and19 pastoral care left an indelible mark on the lives of his congregation; and 20 WHEREAS, Dr. Kirby was a thought-provoking and encouraging prea cher, whose words21 inspired reflection, growth, and hope; he was a teacher who fed both mind and soul with22 truth, humor, and grace; and23 WHEREAS, he was a wonderful educator, especially gifted in teaching children the love of24 Christ, and was affectionately known as the "master of the children's sermon," delighting and25 inspiring young hearts with his warmth, creativity, and care; and 26 WHEREAS, a compassionate and generous man, Dr. F. Hugh Kirby wi ll long be27 remembered for his love of family, friendship, and community and will be missed by all who28 had the great fortune of knowing him.29 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that30 the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory o f Dr. F. Hugh Kirby and31 express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing.32 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized33 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the34 family of Dr. F. Hugh Kirby.35 H. R. 1899 - 2 -