Kirby Matlock

Kirby Lynn Matlock was called to home on May 23, 2024. Kirby was born December 10, 1951 in Tahlequah, to Alby and Sylvia (Davis) Matlock. Kirby was the pride of his four older siblings who spoiled him from the beginning.

Kirby attended school through 8th grade at Moody, where he became a valued baseball player. He continued playing ball at Tahlequah High School, where he also developed an interest in auto mechanics and hot rods.

In the following years, he married his high school sweetheart Kathy, became a father to two beautiful daughters and joined the Air Force. He became a crew chief in the Air Force while stationed in Wichita, Kansas. During his Air Force days, Kirby gained a love for large aircraft and loud engines.

After his time in the service, he attended Northeastern State University. Later, he went to work for McDonnell Douglas in Tulsa, where his affinity for large aircraft continued to grow. He was made foreman quickly and his crews over the next few years worked on several major projects modifying the DC8 aircraft.

His love for loud engines continued with his love of drag boats. We all learned how patient and determined he could be when he rebuilt big block engines several times in the five years he first owned the boat. He also developed a love for Nascar and was a real Dale Earnhardt fan, never missing a race. He loved Chevy trucks, and spent many hours customizing his 1988 model. It was the best looking and sounding truck in the neighborhood.

From Kirby's dad, he learned how to grow gardens and plants of all kinds. Kirby planted flowers and veggies every where he lived. At his home in Tulsa, he grew large vegetables and landscaped his own yard.

Kirby spent a number of years struggling with health problems, but he never wanted that to be how people remembered his life.

He lived a good life with the love and respect of his family and friends. Kirby was a fun and loving husband and father. As well as, a loyal and caring friend. He was well loved and will be remembered and missed by all who knew him.

Kirby was preceded in death by his parents Alby and Sylvia of Moody, OK; brother Leon Matlock of Bartlesville, OK; sisters Joyce Randall and Loyce Tyler of Gardendale, TX, and Gladys Crawford of Moody, OK.

Kirby is survived by his wife Kathy of Tulsa, OK; two daughters, Kim Cagle and husband Rick of Skiatook, OK, Lori Barnes and husband Dennis of Catoosa, OK; two grandchildren, Katie Cagle of Skiatook, OK and Justin Barnes of Catoosa, OK; brothers in-law, sisters in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones.