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Kelvin Irby Obituary
Aug 2, 1959 - Feb 11, 2025
Sandusky
Kelvin Lemond Irby, 65, passed away Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Cleveland Clinic, surrounded by family. Born August 2, 1959, in Sondheimer, Louisiana, he was raised in Sandusky, where he excelled as a decorated athlete, becoming the 1977 Wrestling State Champion and later being inducted into Sandusky High School Hall of Fame.
A devoted father to Janell and Dania, Kelvin was a community leader who founded impactful organizations including YMCA Black Achievers and African American Alternative Center, earning him the key to the City of Sandusky. He owned McDonald Car wash and worked in various professions, always prioritizing community service. Despite facing significant medical challenges, including two heart transplants, Kelvin's resilience inspired many.
He is survived by his mother, Bobbie McDonald; daughters, Janell (Calvin) Thomas and Dania (Gary) Kenty; stepson, Jeremy Newell; sisters, Sandra and Karen McDonald; and grandchildren, Garrison, Graydan, Gunnar, Roman, and Teddi.
He was preceded in death by his fathers, Grady McDonald and Emmanuel Irby; and his infant brother, Gary L. McDonald.
Visitation will be at 2 p.m. until time of services at 4 p.m. Friday, February 21, 2025. at New Jerusalem Baptist Church, 1920 Eddy Henry Way in Sandusky, with the Rev. Curtis Johnson Jr. officiating. Services are being handled by Brown-Robinson Funeral Home, 1814 Milan Road Sandusky , Ohio 44870 419-502-0277
Online condolences made at www.brownrobinsonfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kelvin Irby
Sponsored by Brown-Robinson Funeral Homes - Sandusky.
Bruce Washburn
February 23, 2025
Rest easy now my friend. Remember those days at OSU and roommates off campus. GodSpeed
Steve Hudson
February 22, 2025
He was a gentleman and class act. My prayers will be with his family.
Carrie Shaw
February 22, 2025
My sincere condolences to the family . Kevin had a beautiful spirit. He will be truly missed. My prayers to the family. The Shaw Family
Davin Watson
February 20, 2025
Kelvin and I were in the same class since kindergarten, Miss Hermes, Hancock School. We were on the same Atom League, Little League & Babe Ruth baseball teams from ages 6-12, we would often ride our bikes to practice & games, saying to each other in unison,"We can't win without you", (very true). In the 7th grade we were on the same Drumline, and in High School: The Football team. Just before his transition,
we talked alot about Jesus and often shared scriptures of encouragement with each other. Kelvin was in a great place of peace. I called him Vin-Vin, he called me Dav. I remember listening to WLEC, when he won the Ohio State Wrestling Championship, I was so proud, that was that speedy 8 yr old kid on top of the world. I am a better man because you were in my life, I will sorely miss you my brother and classmate, your legacy of Community Service will live on my dear friend.
!
Gearl Diggs
February 20, 2025
Lord, we pray for the soul of our departed brother Kelvin Irby.
We ask that you bring comfort and healing to his family and loved ones.
Kelvin was a dedicated member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. His presence and contributions will be deeply missed. Let us remember his legacy as we embody Culture for Service and Service for Humanity. Blue Phi!
A True Sigma Man.
Brother Gearl Diggs,
Ken Colatruglio
February 20, 2025
An exceptional young man and a coach's dream, Kelvin was a hardworking wrestler who sought perfection. Quiet, respectful, and never boastful, he epitomized what I later called "Quiet Confidence," a quality only a few wrestlers managed to exhibit. My last comment is meant for Kelvin, for he will understand what it meant to both of us -- "fireman's carry." Condolences to all of his family.
Benny F Higgenbotham Jr.
February 20, 2025
Kelvin was a good neighbor, but more than that, he was a great friend. Always greeted folks with a quick warm smile and you would leave his presence feeling uplifted. He loved his family and community and loved to lift up others with positive energy.
Kelvin will be missed and not forgotten.
Our Thoughts and Prayers are with the Irby Family.
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