Kirby passed away on December 18, 2025 at the age of 88. He retired from NASA after a 30 plus year career at the Space Task Group/MSC/JSC.

The link to Kirby's  obituary is:  https://www.brightfunerals.com/obituaries/James-Kirby-Hinson?obId=46766440

A graveside service will be held in Louisburg, North Carolina on December 28th.