Barbara Gray Kirby

Barbara Gray Kirby, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away unexpectedly in her home on July 31, 2025 at the age of 70. Born on February 21, 1955, to late George Thomas Gray and late Georgia Mae Sykes Gray, Barbara was the cherished “knee baby” among four closely bonded sisters: Pamela Gray Keeter, the late Dallie Elizabeth Gray-Robertson, and Beverly Gray McKee, along with her “bonus sister,” Melinda Connell Speight.

Barbara was the first of her sisters to both marry and start a family. She found great pride in motherhood with the birth of her only daughter, Kelly Moseley Sannidham, in 1975. As a devoted mother and later grandmother, Barbara’s nurturing spirit and unwavering love left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Barbara served her community with dedication and grace. She worked in numerous medical offices across the Roanoke Valley, bringing friendliness and compassion to patients for decades. She concluded her professional journey with the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, where she was known for her strong work ethic and warm presence.

Retirement did not slow her down. Barbara found joy in the simple, meaningful pleasures of life—maintaining a pristine yard that was always in bloom, and cultivating a garden that bore the fruits and vegetables of her labor. She found fulfillment in canning, pickling, and making jellies and preserves, always eager to share her homemade bounty with neighbors, friends, and family.

Above all else, Barbara adored her two grandsons, Carson Alexander Swartzel and Ashton Gray Swartzel. Her face lit up in their presence, and they will carry her love and wisdom with them always.

Barbara’s warmth, strength, and generosity touched many lives, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of her life will be held from 6:00-8:00 pm on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at All Saints’ Parish House at 9 E 7th Street Roanoke Rapids. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to plant something beautiful in her memory—just as she did every season.