Richard Ernest Kearbey

Richard Ernest Kearbey, 85, of Lizella, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, April 25, at 2:00 PM at the chapel of FairHaven Funeral Home. The family will greet friends one hour prior to service time.

Richard was born on December 28, 1940, Saulte Ste Marie, Michigan, to the late Mr. Ernest Albert Kearbey and Mrs. Elsie Marian Fletcher Kearbey. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and retired from Norfolk Southern, where he worked in the track department. Richard liked to play tennis, fish, and spend time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed cutting wood, a pastime that kept him close to the outdoors and grounded in simple, rewarding work. Evenings were often spent playing cards with family and friends, where his good humor was always on display. Richard often spent time with a good book and took delight in solving crossword puzzles, keeping his mind sharp and engaged. He was also a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves, following the team with unwavering enthusiasm. As a proud owner of a single share of team stock, he liked to joke that he made sure he “was on top of any and all decisions that were made,” a reflection of both his deep loyalty and his playful sense of humor.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his grandson, Nyckel Kearbey and sister, Ann Dodgson.

Left to cherish Richard’s memory are his loving wife of 57 years, Ann S. Kearby; daughter, Lynne Brown; son, Chris Kearbey (Alison); grandchildren, David Beasley, David Kearbey, MaKayla Sanford (Timmy), and Jayden Kearbey; great-granddaughter, Blakelynn Sanford; sisters, Mary Deason, Karen Ammons, Debbie Waugh, and Cindy Kelley; brothers, Steve Kearbey, Jack Kearbey, and Jim Kearbey.

In lieu of flowers, the family graciously requests donations be made in Mr. Kearbey’s honor to: Special Olympics Area 7, 6801 Mosley Dixon Road, Macon, Georgia 31220.

Friends may sign the online registry at www.fairhavenmacon.com.

FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services has the honor of being entrusted with arrangements.