Thomas attended Enloe HS and joined the army after graduation. He ended his military career with a rank of E4. He then became very passionate about criminal justice and started a career with the Department of Corrections in North Carolina, He worked his way up in rank and retired as a SGT. After retirement he became an avid fisherman and was always a dedicated family man. His last years of life he attended Baptist Tabernacle Church with friend Nancy, who also took care of him during his time of illness. He received spiritual guidance and counseling from pastor Glen Brock and was well prepared to walk through the gates of Heaven.

He was preceded in death by his eldest son Matthew Kirby. He is survived by his parents Bronnie and Polly; his brother Donnie Kirby and wife Donna; brother Marvin Kirby West and wife Anita; sister Rose Seymour; son Jonathan Kirby and wife Desiree; three grandsons Trinton, Jonathan Jr and Joshua; great granddaughter Eva; 2 nieces and 2 nephews and several great nieces and nephews.