Seamus Kirby, a resident of Newport, Rhode Island, passed away tragically on April 14, 2024, following a spearfishing accident in Panama. Born on October 14, 1994, Seamus was deeply rooted in the Newport community, where he grew up and contributed significantly throughout his life.
Seamus Kirby was an accomplished individual with a passion for both athletics and his professional career. He started racing motocross bikes at the age of ten and won the NESC Motocross Championship in the 85cc class at twelve. His athletic journey continued with notable achievements in lacrosse during his high school years at Rocky Hill Country Day School, where he set records for goals, assists, and face-offs.
Seamus earned a Bachelor of Arts in Historic Preservation and Community Planning from the College of Charleston in 2017. After graduation, he returned to Newport and joined Kirby Construction as a project manager, working alongside his father, Jerry.
His dedication to the Newport community extended beyond his professional life. Seamus was known for his generosity and kindness, often going out of his way to help others. He was a beloved figure in the community, remembered for his infectious zest for life and ability to make everyone feel included and valued.
Seamus is survived by his wife, Tatum Wadensten, and their children, Hendrix Seamus Kirby and Halsten Vaughn Kirby. He is also survived by his older brother, Rome Kirby IV, and their children, as well as numerous other family members. He was predeceased by his sister, Hannah Elizabeth Kirby.
The community of Newport has come together to mourn his loss, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of the positive impact he had on their lives. A Mass of Christian burial was held on April 27, 2024, at St. Mary’s Church in Newport, with a private burial following.
Seamus’s legacy of compassion, love, and community spirit continues to inspire those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished by the Newport community for years to come.
Seamus Kirby: A Beloved Figure in Newport, RI
Introduction
Seamus Kirby was a remarkable individual whose life and legacy left an indelible mark on the community of Newport, Rhode Island. Born and raised in Newport, Seamus was known for his athletic prowess, professional achievements, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. This article explores the life of Seamus Kirby, his contributions, and the profound impact he had on those around him.
Early Life and Education
Seamus Kirby was born on October 14, 1994, in Newport, Rhode Island. From a young age, he displayed a passion for sports and an exceptional talent for athletics. He attended Underwood School, Cluny School, and Pennfield School, before graduating from Rocky Hill Country Day School in 2013. During his time at Rocky Hill, Seamus excelled in lacrosse, becoming the team captain and earning numerous accolades. He was the first recipient of the Charley Blanchard Relentless Spirit Award and was named to the Boys Varsity Lacrosse SENEISAA first team All-League in 2012. His achievements included setting records for most goals, assists, and face-offs won in a season and over his four-year varsity career.
Professional Career
After completing high school, Seamus pursued higher education at the College of Charleston in South Carolina, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Historic Preservation and Community Planning in 2017. Following his graduation, Seamus returned to Newport and joined Kirby Construction, a family business, as a project manager. Working alongside his father, Jerry, Seamus quickly made a name for himself in the construction industry. His dedication, hard work, and attention to detail were evident in every project he undertook. Seamus’s professional achievements were not just limited to his technical skills; he was also known for his ability to foster strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike.
Passion for Motocross and Athletics
Seamus Kirby’s love for sports extended beyond lacrosse. He began racing motocross bikes at the age of ten and achieved significant success in the sport. By the age of twelve, he had won the NESC Motocross Championship in the 85cc class, a testament to his skill and determination. Over the next decade, Seamus accumulated numerous trophies and accolades in motocross, solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor. His passion for motocross was a reflection of his adventurous spirit and his drive to excel in everything he pursued.
Commitment to Community and Family
Seamus Kirby was not just a successful athlete and professional; he was also deeply committed to his family and community. Known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others, Seamus was a beloved figure in Newport. He was devoted to his wife, Tatum Wadensten, and their children, Hendrix Seamus Kirby and Halsten Vaughn Kirby. Seamus’s love for his family was evident in everything he did, from his professional endeavors to his personal interactions.
Seamus’s impact on the Newport community was profound. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it was volunteering at local events or simply offering a friendly smile to a neighbor. His ability to make everyone feel included and valued was one of his most cherished qualities. Seamus’s untimely passing on April 14, 2024, following a spearfishing accident in Panama, sent shockwaves through the community. His loss was deeply felt by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, compassion, and community spirit continues to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.
Legacy and Remembrance
The legacy of Seamus Kirby lives on through the countless lives he touched during his time in Newport. His memory is honored by his family, friends, and the entire community. A Mass of Christian burial was held on April 27, 2024, at St. Mary’s Church in Newport, where loved ones gathered to celebrate his life and mourn his loss. The outpouring of support and condolences from the community was a testament to the impact Seamus had on those around him.
Seamus’s spirit remains a guiding light for his family and friends. His dedication to his family, his professional achievements, and his love for sports and adventure are all remembered fondly. The community of Newport continues to honor his memory by embracing the values he embodied: kindness, generosity, and a deep sense of community. Seamus’s legacy serves as a reminder of the positive impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
Conclusion
Seamus Kirby was a remarkable individual whose life was defined by his love for his family, his passion for sports, and his commitment to his community. His legacy continues to inspire those who knew him and serves as a testament to the enduring power of kindness, generosity, and dedication. The community of Newport, Rhode Island, will forever remember Seamus Kirby for the joy and light he brought into their lives, and his memory will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
Explore the life of Seamus Kirby, a Newport, RI native known for his athletic prowess, community dedication, and impactful legacy.