Jack Kirby Grave Restoration - Netherseal.

Hello, my name is Kalwinder Singh Dhindsa.

I have created this page to raise funds to restore the grave of John 'Jack' Kirby in St Peter's Church, Netherseal, Derbyshire.

Jack Kirby was an English football goalkeeper.

Kirby joined Derby County from Newhall United in April 1929 and made his debut in the 1929–30 season.

In 1934 he was part of the Derby County side that toured Germany. Kirby defied the German authorities by being the only member of the team to refuse to give the Nazi salute before each game.

The historic image shows the Rams in their famous black and white kit giving the salute - while one defiant player, Jack Kirby, refused and stood with his arms by his side. Goalkeeper Jack Kirby (far left) can be seen standing with his arms down and facing away from the crowd

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D.C.'s Marvellous Jack Kirby by Kalwinder Singh Dhindsa.

Nazi dignitary arise.

Crestfallen faces. A drop of the eyes.

Salute mein Führer and all things Nazi.

Derby County of England on tour. Germany.

Reluctant raised hands. A compromise.

Just following orders. Do not criticise.

The last line of defence, fist clenched by his side.

A goalkeeper back turned. Sieg Heil denied.

The Nazis they smirk until they catch sight of the one.

A head held high. A courageous shun.

The Ram that defied Hitler, an Overseal man.

John 'Jack' Kirby did not give a damn.

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He left Derby County in August 1938 to become player-manager of Folkestone Town, a position he held until August 1939.

Tragically, Jack Kirby passed away at a relatively young age of 50 and was then buried at St Peter's Church in Netherseal, Derbyshire.

The inscription on his grave:

TREASURED MEMORIES OF A DEAR HUSBAND AND FATHER.

JOHN KIRBY.

AT REST 15TH JUNE 1960.

AGED 50 YEARS.

The current condition of his resting place is now in a very weathered state. The lead lettering of his grave inscription has been lost to the elements, although the previous words can still be just about read.

I believe the time has now come to restore his grave to the condition it was when he was first buried in the hope that many more people will become aware of him and his legacy. A local legend that should never be forgotten; a man who continues to raise the spirits of all those who were inspired by his unforgettable act of defiance.

With the assistance of Horobin Memorials we intend to restore the grave of Jack Kirby.

The restoration of the grave has the backing of the Kirby family and approval from St Peter's Church.

Please feel free to donate anything you can. Every penny will be appreciated. Anything collected over the initial target will be donated to the Church to maintain their churchyard and look after other memorials in their care.

It is hoped that this project will be completed by the second quarter of 2025.

Thank you,

Kal.

#JackKirbyGrave