Seamus Daniel Kirby Newport Ri native, left an indelible mark on his community and loved ones. His life, though cut short at 29, was a testament to the power of passion, family, and embracing every moment. How does one man’s journey inspire an entire community? Let’s explore the life of this remarkable individual who touched so many hearts in his hometown and beyond.
A Life That Began with a Bang
Born on October 14, 1994, in Newport, RI, Seamus Daniel Kirby entered the world “like a shot from a cannon.” This vivid description of his arrival set the tone for a life lived with boundless energy and enthusiasm. As the son of Jerome R. Kirby III and Kathryn Kimberly Kirby, Seamus was destined to make waves in his coastal community.
From his early years, it was clear that Seamus was a force to be reckoned with. His education took him through some of Newport’s finest institutions, including Underwood School, Cluny School, and Pennfield School. However, it was at Rocky Hill Country Day School where Seamus truly began to shine, graduating in 2013 with a trail of accomplishments in his wake.
A Natural Athlete with a Competitive Spirit
Seamus’s athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He excelled in Newport Youth Travel Hockey, but it was on the lacrosse field where he truly made his mark. As captain of the Rocky Hill Boys Varsity Lacrosse team, Seamus led by example, earning a spot on the SENEISAA first team All-League in 2012.
His achievements in lacrosse were nothing short of remarkable. Seamus held the record for most goals, assists, and face-offs won in both a single season and over his entire four-year varsity career. These accomplishments speak to his dedication, skill, and natural leadership abilities.
Perhaps most telling of Seamus’s character was his distinction as the first recipient of the Charley Blanchard Relentless Spirit Award. This honor not only recognized his athletic abilities but also highlighted the indomitable spirit that would define his approach to life.
The Thrill of the Ride: Motocross Champion
While many young athletes focus on a single sport, Seamus’s competitive nature and love for excitement led him to motocross. Starting at the tender age of ten, he quickly rose through the ranks. By twelve, Seamus had already clinched the NESC Motocross Championship in the 85cc class.
Over the next decade, Seamus’s room filled with trophies, each one a testament to his skill, bravery, and determination on the track. This passion for motocross showcased his ability to excel in multiple arenas, pushing himself to new heights in every endeavor he undertook.
A Mind for Preservation, A Heart for Community
After graduating from Rocky Hill Country Day School, Seamus’s journey took him to the College of Charleston in South Carolina. There, he pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Historic Preservation and Community Planning, graduating in 2017. This choice of study reflected a deep appreciation for history and a desire to contribute to the preservation of community heritage.
Seamus’s education in historic preservation would prove to be a perfect complement to his future career path. It demonstrated his ability to look beyond the present, valuing the stories and structures that shape a community’s identity.
Returning to His Roots: A Career in Construction
Following his college graduation, Seamus felt the pull of his beloved island calling him home. He returned to Newport, ready to apply his skills and education to the family business, Kirby Construction. Starting as a project manager, Seamus worked alongside his father, Jerry, continuing a legacy of craftsmanship and community involvement.
This transition from academia to hands-on work in construction showcased Seamus’s versatility and his commitment to family tradition. It also allowed him to directly contribute to the preservation and development of the community he loved so dearly.
A Family Man with an Open Heart
Seamus’s personal life was as rich and fulfilling as his professional achievements. He found his life partner in Tatum James Wadensten, and together they built a beautiful family. Their children, Hendrix Seamus Kirby and Halsten Vaughn Kirby, became the center of Seamus’s world, a testament to his capacity for love and devotion.
His role as a husband and father seemed to amplify Seamus’s already generous spirit. Known for his inclusive nature, he had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome. Friends, family, and even strangers found themselves drawn into Seamus’s warm embrace, metaphorically sheltered under his big tent of companionship.
A Waterman at Heart
Living in Newport, it’s no surprise that Seamus developed a deep connection to the ocean. He was described as a true waterman, at home in the sea and “swimming through the waters of a life well lived.” This poetic description captures the essence of Seamus’s approach to life – fluid, adaptable, and in harmony with the natural world around him.
His love for the ocean was more than just a pastime; it was a fundamental part of his identity. It influenced his outlook on life, his relationships, and his connection to his hometown.
A Legacy of Love and Inclusion
Tragically, Seamus’s vibrant life came to an end on April 14, 2024, at the age of 29. Yet, in his short time, he left an incredible legacy that extends far beyond his athletic achievements or professional success. Seamus will be remembered for his boundless passion for life, his devotion to family and friends, and his remarkable ability to bring people together.
His passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, including his wife Tatum, their children Hendrix and Halsten, his brother Rome Kirby IV and his family, and a wide circle of relatives and friends. Each of these connections represents a life touched and enriched by Seamus’s presence.
Remembering Seamus Daniel Kirby
As the Newport community prepares to bid farewell to Seamus at St. Mary’s Church on April 27, 2024, many will reflect on the impact he had on their lives. His story serves as a reminder to live fully, love deeply, and embrace the spirit of inclusion that Seamus exemplified.
Seamus Daniel Kirby’s life, though too brief, was a shining example of what it means to be truly alive. From the sports fields to the construction sites, from the motocross tracks to the ocean waves, Seamus left his mark. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him to live with passion, to welcome others with open arms, and to cherish every moment of this precious life.
In the end, Seamus’s story is not just about his accomplishments, but about the lives he touched and the community he helped build. It’s a story of a life well-lived, a reminder that our true legacy lies in the connections we make and the love we share.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Seamus Daniel Kirby |
| Date of Birth | October 14, 1994 |
| Place of Birth | Newport, Rhode Island |
| Date of Death | April 14, 2024 |
| Location of Death | Middletown, Rhode Island |
| Education | – Underwood School |
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