James (Jim) Robert Irby, a proud Veteran of the United States Army, peacefully passed away in his sleep on Monday, Nov. 8, 2021 at the age of 69, in Mobile Ala., where he was temporarily residing on a work assignment. He was born on Feb. 8, 1952, in Valdosta Ga. to Lester C. and Mae K. Irby. He is survived by his beloved of 16 years, Christina Ford; his three children: Robert, of Orlando, Fla.; Jennifer Irby-Johnson (Adam); and Chris. He is also survived by his mother; and two sisters, Carol and Janis, both of New Orleans, La. He is predeceased by his father; and brother, Richard.
Jim grew up in Orlando, Fla. and graduated from Florida Military School, in Deland, Fla., in 1971. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1974 where he served multiple-tours world-wide while making life-long friends along the way. After 22 years of service, Jim retired as a Sergeant First Class (E-7) at Fort Gordon, Ga. Upon his retirement from the Army, Jim began a second career in Construction Quality Management.
Jim worked at EXP (Teng & Associates) for over 20 years as a Field Superintendent and Project Manager, traveling across the country working on military bases and telecommunication facilities. He took enormous pride in his work and developed great relationships with peers and contractors. He was respected by all and made others feel they were a valued part of any project.
In addition to spending time with Christina, his family and his countless friends, Jim enjoyed fishing with his buddies, grilling for a crowd, FSU football and spending time on the family property, in Madison. Jim NEVER missed a New Orleans Jazz Fest with his “girls” – he was at the gates when they opened and usually the last to leave (especially if Jimmy Buffett was closing at the Acura Stage where Jim staked out “his” space every year).
Jim made fast friends wherever he was and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was truly the good guy we all loved and felt blessed to have in our lives.
Jim attended Rocky Springs UMC and was devoted to his church – and church family.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday afternoon, Nov. 19, at Rocky Springs United Methodist Church, 305 NE Rocky Springs Church Rd., in Madison. Light refreshments will be served in the Fellowship Hall immediately following the service where everyone is encouraged to share fond memories of this special loved one, son, father and friend.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Rocky Springs United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.