Lee Kirby

Martin Lee Kirby, known fondly by friends and family as Lee, passed away suddenly in Moncks Corner, S.C., on May 31, 2024, after a life well-lived. Born on November 30, 1954, in Spartanburg, S.C., Lee was the son of William Stacy Kirby and Barbara Lance Kirby.

Lee graduated from the University of South Carolina, carrying with him a passion for music that would define much of his professional life. He began his career with a profound commitment to education, serving as the beloved Band Director at Berkeley High School. His dedication to excellence in music education led him to establish the band program at Stratford High School, where he laid the foundations for future generations’ musical pursuits. Beyond music, Lee shared his knowledge through teaching pre-vocational cabinet building classes—one of only two such programs in South Carolina. His post-retirement life was no less active, as he continued to contribute to Berkeley County Schools in the maintenance department building cabinets.

Lee’s love for music was not only evident in his teaching but also in his personal life. He played bass guitar with a local jazz band for years. But above all, Lee’s heart belonged to his family and his unwavering faith. He proudly wore the mantle of a family man and man of God.

He leaves behind a loving wife, Melinda Fowler Kirby; sons, Martin Kirby and his wife Emily, Richard Kirby and his wife Sarah; his daughter, Mary Beth Martin and her husband Thomas; his sister, Sherri Meadows, and her husband Terry; his brothers, John David Kirby and Stephen B. Kirby and his wife Lisa; and his cherished grandchildren, Harper, Olivia, Benjamin, Camille, Ava, Jace, Chaplin, and Elliana.