John Dewey Kirby, age 61, resident of Fort Scott, KS died Wednesday, May 24, 2023. He was born November 23, 1961, in Wichita, KS, the son of William and Mary Elizabeth Long. John was a bull rider for over 20 years on the rodeo circuit. More recently he worked maintenance for Lake Chaparral in Mound City, KS. He enjoyed anything outdoors, camping, woodworking, and listening to rock music. John always had his trusty dog “Bo” by his side. He loved spending time with family, especially his grand children. John married Chastity Mackley on November 12, 2022, in Fort Scott.

Survivors include his wife Chastity of the home; a son Dustin Erikson; a daughter, Cherokee Erikson (Clint Szuwalski); and 3 grandsons, Hunter, Gunner, and Kaiser. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There was cremation. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the John Kirby Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com