In Loving Memory of
“Whitey”
Edward Earl Kirby
December 25, 1968 – April 1, 2026
Edward Earl Kirby, known as “Whitey,” to those who loved him, passed away on April 1, 2026, in Clermont, Florida, at the age of 57. He was surrounded by those he held most dear as he peacefully joined his Savior at 6:30 p.m. on Passover, marking a deeply meaningful alignment with his faith.
Born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1968, in Naples, Florida, Edward brought a special light into the lives of his parents, Betty Ann Kirby and Herschel Mason. He and his family moved to Lake County in 1975, where he grew up and later built a life centered around family, friendship, and loyalty.
Edward is now reunited in peace with his parents, Betty and Herschel; his beloved son, Brantley Kirby; his brother, Bobby Haire; his stepfathers, Alan Stokes and Robert Haire; his uncles, Emmitt and James; his aunt Faye (Linda); and many cousins.
He leaves behind a legacy of love through his daughter, Tabitha Sullivan (Kirby); his sisters, Michelle, Mary, and Melody; and his ten cherished grandchildren: Derick, Evellyn, Victoria, Eric, Tristyn, Willow, Daphnie, Thomas, Avery, and Judd. He is also survived by his aunts, Shirley Newman and Linda Kirby; his beloved dog, Cash; and many cousins and dear friends.
Whitey had a way of making people feel cared for, like they mattered. He loved deeply, stood by the people he believed in, and found joy in the simple moments spent with those closest to him.
He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
A celebration of life will be held at Midway Missionary Baptist Church located at 12813 Bay Lake Rd, Groveland, Florida 34736 on April 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM and followed by a graveyard farewell at Bay Lake Cemetery located at 2469-2499 Bay Lake Loop, Groveland, Florida 34736.
Please join the family afterwards for refreshments at Mac Gunn’s home located at 433 Mount Pleasant Road, Groveland, Florida 34736. Please bring a lawn chair.
