Emmitt Kirby Jr., 68 of Mascotte, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026 at Advent Hospital in Orlando, Florida. Emmitt was born in Osceola, Arkansas on January 9, 1958 to his parents Gladys and Emmitt Kirby Sr.
Emmitt lived life on his own terms, independent, adventurous, and never far from a story waiting to happen. Those who knew him best remember the moments spent alongside him, the unexpected adventures, the laughter, the chaos, and the stories that remain to be told and retold. Em was, in many ways, like some of his favorite songs, always Against the Wind, a Travelin’ Man, a bit of Bad Company, and forever ready to Turn the Page. In his own way, he was an old Troubadour, leaving behind a soundtrack of memories only he could create.
Emmitt is preceded in death by his father Emmitt Kirby Sr., his mother Gladys Kirby, his sisters Linda Faye Houtt, Betty Haire, his brother Jim Kirby and his nephew Bobby Haire.
Emmitt is survived by his sister Shirley Newman, his daughters Nikki Kirby, Tasha Terry, Tiffany Kirby, his sons Tony Eubanks, Emmitt Kirby III, Nathan Kirby, Franky Terry, Jessie Kirby, 17 grandkids, 1 great granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held March 28. 2026 11am at Midway Missionary Baptist Church located at 12813 Baylake Rd, Groveland, Florida 34736 and followed by a graveyard farewell at Mascotte Cemetery. Please join the family afterwards at Mac Gunn’s home located at 433 Mount Pleasant Road Groveland, Florida 34736 for refreshments and time to reminisce on who Big Emmitt was to us all, a friend, father and beloved grandpa. Please bring a lawn chair!
