Kenneth James Irby

Kenneth Irby, 61, of Bedford, passed away September 4, 2025. He was born October 18, 1963 in Fairfax, Virginia, a son of the late Raymond and Helen Irby.

Ken is survived by his sisters, Linda Powell, Susan Irby, Pamela and Donald House, Eileen and Robert Atkinson; brother and sister-in-law Christopher and Dianne; and many nieces and nephews.

The term “family man” does not technically describe Ken, but he was actually just that. He was never married and never had children, but he loved his parents, brother, and sisters deeply. Family was always at the forefront of his mind and heart.

Ken had a giving nature, a great sense of humor and was happiest playing guitar. He would often bring total strangers together for singing, and we have very happy memories of him playing guitar on our parents’ porch and at family gatherings. His friend of 18 years, Scott McStacy, started his friendship with the questions “Can you play?” and “Can you sing?” and started Eagles songs then and there. He had 1000 tunes in his playlist in his head. Ken loved to play the Beatles, Grateful Dead, and Willie Nelson on his Martin Guitar.

He had a wonderful memory which served him well in his occupation as an electrician, project manager and electrical estimator.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bedford Memorial Hospital ED, Lynchburg General Hospital ICU, especially Kailey and Alex for their care and consideration of both Ken and his family.

The family plans to have a memorial service in October. He will be greatly missed.