Marshall Elijah Kerby, 93, of Irvine, Kentucky, passed away on July 6, 2025, at Hospice Compassionate Care Center, surrounded by love and family.
Born on October 11, 1931, in Irvine, KY, Marshall lived a full and remarkable life defined by hard work, faith, love for his family, and a legacy of service to his country and community.
He proudly served as an Army Corporal during the Korean War and later retired from Bluegrass Army Depot after 30 years of dedicated service, where he worked as a cabinet maker and eventually as Supervisor of the Maintenance Department. One of his proudest professional accomplishments was remodeling the Pentagon.
Marshall was also honored with the title of Kentucky Colonel, the Commonwealth’s highest civilian recognition, in acknowledgment of his lifelong dedication, leadership, and service to others.
A man of deep faith, Marshall was a longtime member of South Irvine Holiness Church, where he took great joy in helping lead music alongside his dear friend Kathy Smith. His love for music was a defining part of his life—he played in a bluegrass band, hosted his own radio show, and even owned a restaurant for a short time called The Squeeze Inn.
Marshall enjoyed many simple pleasures—camping, playing putt-putt golf, weekly trips to Walmart and Cracker Barrel, traveling, farming, mowing his yard and sharing laughter and stories with those he held dear.
He is survived by his loving wife of the past three years, Eva Ballard Kerby; his two sons: Mike Kerby (Richelle Phillips) of Irvine, KY, and Rick Kerby (Jon Coleman) of Sarasota, FL; and his grandchildren: Chris Kerby (Dessa-Lena) of Irvine, KY, and Misty Epperson (Aaron) of Lexington, KY. He also leaves behind many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, along with niece and nephews all of whom brought him great pride and joy.
Marshall was lovingly cared for in his final years with the help of Maxine Spicer, daughter of Eva Kerby, whose family he loved as his own.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Bertha Kerby; his wife of 53 years, Earsle Kerby; his second wife of 10 years, Joyce Peters Kerby; his brother Garland Kerby; his sisters Viola Dunaway, Elizabeth Reed, and Lena Winkler; and his granddaughter Melissa Kerby King.
Marshall will be remembered as a kind-hearted, humorous, and talented man whose life was shaped by resilience, humility, faith, and music. His family will forever carry forward the memories, melodies, and lessons he leaves behind.
Service arrangements are being conducted by the Warren F. Toler Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 8th from 6-9pm at the Funeral Home with funeral services Wednesday, July 9th at 11am and graveyard burial at West Irvine Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marshall’s memory to South Irvine Holiness Church located at 185 Sugar Hollow Road, Irvine, KY 40336.
Pallbearers include:
Randy King, Levi Kerby, Logan Middleton, Michael Curtis, Damian Harrison, Ridge Wilkinson, Cecile Hardy, Christian Neal
Honorary Pallbearers include:
Chris Kerby, Aaron Epperson, and Jon Coleman
