Kirby Joe Lott

Kirby was born November 10, 1930, in Lonoke County, Arkansas. His father, John K. Lott died in 1934 when Kirby was 3 ½ years old. Kirby’s mother, Naomi H. Nelson Lott and Kirby moved in with Naomi's parents on the Charlie and Roxie Nelson farm. Kirby spent the first 17 years on cotton farms.

On May 25, 1948, Kirby enlisted in the U.S. Army, was promoted to Master Sergeant, Grade E7 in Korea November 25, 1951. E7 was the highest enlisted grade at that time. After returning from Korea in January 1952 Kirby met and married Barbara Ann Gravette from England, Arkansas. Kirby applied for and received a Reserve Officer’s Commission in May 1953. Barbara and Kirby were blessed with a baby daughter, Pamela Annette, on October 27, 1953. Kirby was ordered to active duty as a 1st Lieutenant, October 16, 1956. After 30 ½ years of continuous active duty, Kirby retired as a Full Colonel, 06 on October 31, 1978, as a happy camper proud of his Army military service, friends and family. At age 67, after three civilian jobs as a military retiree, Kirby retired from the workforce and soon wondered how he ever found time to go to work?

Kirby’s wonderful mother, Naomi, and his wife of 58 wonderful years, Barbara preceded Kirby in death. Barbara died from renal (Kidney) failure, May 19, 2010, after 19 months on dialysis. Kirby’s daughter, Pamela Annette Lott also predeceased him. Kirby is survived by several cousins and other relatives mainly from Arkansas.

Kirby although a Christian, chose to be cremated and with no fanfare of church service or funeral, have his ashes placed at Arlington National Cemetery so that he may rejoin his Barbara, Pam and Barbara’s sister Sue and resume the love.

Prepared by: Kirby J. Lott 8/03/2017