Obituary

Kirby B. Martin, Jr., 80, of Charleston, WV, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, at home.

Kirby was born in Charleston, WV, growing up on the East End. He graduated from Charleston High School, Class of 1962, and from Marshall University’s School of Engineering. His first job was with B.F. Goodrich Company in Akron, OH, where he received a patent for designing a logging tire. He returned to Charleston as a partner of Arrow Rug Company. In 1981, he began his career in the coal industry as Vice-President of Carbon Fuel Sales Company. After 10 years, he continued with Scan Technologies, Highlands Coal Sales, and retired from Pace Carbon Fuel. His love of the coal industry showed through his service in many industry organizations: President of Southern Coals Conference, President of Peters Creek Coal Association and President of ACI. He also served as a member of the Edgewood Country Club Board of Directors and as the Golf Committee Chairman.

Kirby was a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and loved his Marshall Thundering Herd teams. He avidly followed his Cincinnati Reds and enjoyed traveling to many stadiums across the U.S.A. to watch them.

Kirby and Nancy visited all 50 states and many national parks, as well as cruising much of the world. Kirby was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Charleston.
Kirby is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Nancy; his son, Jim (Rita); his sister, Mary Ellen Phillips (John); several nieces, and many dear friends.

Memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church, 16 Leon Sullivan Way, Charleston, WV, with Rev. Dr. Bill Myers officiating.

Visitation will begin one hour prior in the church sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First Presbyterian Church, 16 Leon Sullivan Way, Charleston, WV 25301 or HospiceCare, 1606 Kanawha Blvd. W., Charleston, WV 25387.

Condolences may be sent to Kirby’s family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

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First Presbyterian Church

Address: 16 Leon Sullivan Way, Charleston, WV 25301 - (Get Directions)

HospiceCare

Address: 1606 Kanawha Blvd. W., Charleston, WV 25387 - (Get Directions)

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12 responses to Kirby B. Martin Jr.

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Frances Clark says:

February 8, 2025

Nancy my family is sorry for your loss. You and Kirby have always been so kind and loving to us all! Especially Dad, Bobby and Barb! If there is ever anything I can do for you or your family please don’t hesitate to ask. With love and prayers Francie Clark

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Karen Lee says:

February 5, 2025

Nancy and family:
So very sorry for your loss.

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Mary Beth (Knox) Blake says:

February 5, 2025

Mrs Martin and Jimmy, I am so very sorry. Prayers for you during this difficult time!!

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Richard Clonch says:

February 4, 2025

Jenine and I are heart broken to hear about the passing of Kirby. Nancy and Jim, we send you our love and our prayers. Kirby will be missed, but not forgotten. So many great memories that we will continue to cherish. May GOD’s blessings be with you.
Love,
Rick & Jenine Clonch

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Jim Treptow says:

February 4, 2025

Dear Nancy and Jimmy; so very sad to hear of Kirby’s passing. He was truly loved by all of us that worked and played with him; truly a one-of-a kind partner and friend.

Kirby was the absolute catalyst for the success of Pace Carbon Fuels and I will forever appreciate Paul Vinings unqualified recommendation of Kirby to lead PCF’s marketing efforts.

My only regret is that we had lost contact over these 10 years. I thought of him and his family often. I hope his last days were peaceful and he was with family and close friends. Please accept my sincerest of condolences.

Wishing you both peace in this time of grief. Best, Jim Treptow

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