A group of cyclists gathered outside Melson Funeral Home in Long Neck Oct. 1 to participate in a celebration of life ride for Lloyd “Jay” Kirby Jr. before his funeral service.
Kirby, 79, died Sept. 23 from injuries he suffered in a crash Sept. 11 on Route 1, near the Kings Highway intersection outside Lewes.
Kirby, a Navy veteran and active member of Sussex Cyclists, had ridden more than 100,000 miles over the past 25 years, including a solo 4,451-mile cross-country trek in 2000.
Following the ride, cyclists paid respects to Jay and his family at the service.
Michele Williams, widow of Jay Kirby, thanks cyclists for coming to pay tribute to her husband.
Michele Williams reads the Cyclist Prayer to the group before they head out onto Route 24.
Sussex Cyclists responded with a large turnout for the ride.
Jenn Rowan of Lifecycle tells riders about the route.
The group heads south on Angola Road back toward the funeral home.
Michele Williams displays the Cyclist Prayer.
Participants were given #rideforjay wristbands.
