Ira Vernon Kimble of Lexington, Virginia passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 8, 2020 surrounded by his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Ruby Jane Kimble, and his daughters, Angela Kimble Helmer (Wally) of Hudson, Ohio, Ronda Kimble Zukowsky (John) of Richmond, Verna Kimble Intorre (Joe) of State College, Pa., and Joyce Kimble (Jim Holls) of Parkton, Md.

Ira loved and was loved by his six grandchildren: Zachery Intorre (Samantha), Caitlin Helmer, Christopher Intorre, Meghan Akridge (Trey), Caroline Zukowsky (Sean Hjelle), and Nicholas Kimble-Holls. He also adored his three great-grandchildren: Lucas Intorre, James Intorre, and George Hjelle.

Also surviving are brothers, Loyen Kimble of Romney, W.Va., and Luther Kimble of Silver Springs, Md., and sister, Loris Shreve of Pendleton County, W.Va.

Ira was born on July 3, 1925 in Pendleton County, W.Va. to Vernie Joab Kimble and Glona Alt Kimble.

His interest very early in farming led to his pursuit of Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Agricultural Extension Education at West Virginia University.

He was an avid fan of all things Mountaineer and spent many fall and winter weekends in Morgantown, W.Va., supporting his beloved Mountaineers. He was recognized by West Virginia University by accepting membership in the Graduate Emeritus honorary.

Ira served his country in World War II. He was a member of the United States Army and served for the last two years of the war as a military policeman.

After World War II, Ira began his career as a county Extension agent for the United States Department of Agriculture in Wirt County, W.Va. During his years in Elizabeth, W.Va., one of Ira's favorite memories was leadership of the 4-H clubs. He directed the summer camps and enjoyed working with youth in developing their skills.

Ira relocated his family to Virginia after transfer to the Farmer's Home Administration of the United States Department of Agriculture. He served in Lebanon and Tazewell, before settling into the final phase of his career in Lexington in 1967. He retired from this position in 1990.

Ira was active in the Lions Club and Kiwanis Club. His most loved activity was spending time with his family and taking them on summer vacations to many wonderful places in the United States. He also enjoyed fishing and gardening. His family and extended family enjoyed celebrating his July 3rd birthday each year at Canaan Valley Resort in West Virginia among the beautiful mountains where Ira was raised.

A graveside service at Stonewall Jackson Memorial Cemetery was held on May 12. Pastor Joe Cailles of Trinity United Methodist Church officiated.

Arrangements were handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.