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.