Madison, WI – On August 14, 2026, esteemed Senior Pastor of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Racine, Wisconsin’s oldest Black congregation, and revered community leader Bishop Lawrence L. Kirby passed away. Representative Shelia Stubbs (D-Madison) released the following statement:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bishop Lawrence L. Kirby, a titan of Wisconsin’s faith community and a visionary leader and advocate for not only the Racine community, but for communities across Wisconsin. My thoughts, prayers, and heart are with Bishop Kirby’s family, friends, congregation, community, and all those mourning his loss.

I had the privilege of knowing Bishop Kirby since I was a small child. He was a long-time personal friend to me and my family, praying for us on many occasions, and I had the opportunity to visit and worship several times with his congregation at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Racine, where he served with purpose, passion, and integrity for an incredible 45 years. I also deeply admired his work with the NAACP and within the community to transform the lives of those around him.

One memorable moment that I shared with Bishop Kirby took place after he delivered remarks at the Wisconsin State Capitol at Inauguration on January 3, 2023. Always my ardent supporter, he refused to leave the Capitol until he saw and prayed with me after I was sworn in. His spiritual and community leadership fundamentally shaped the lives of so many, and it was a privilege to receive his blessings. When Bishop Kirby spoke, it was with conviction and power. His word was true and his commitment was absolute. 

Bishop Kirby was a deeply helpful and compassionate person, always striving to extend the arms of his ministry beyond the church walls and address the pressing needs of his neighbors. From creating the Godfathers/Godsons Mentoring Program, which provided mentorship, guidance, and positive role models to Black youth in Racine, to leading the development of the St. Paul Gardens affordable senior living complex, to establishing the Hope House group home for boys, the Good Samaritan House, the Mercy House, and numerous other critical community resources, Bishop Kirby modeled a dedication to servant leadership that is impossible to replicate.

The State of Wisconsin has lost an irreplaceable icon, leader, and community champion. Bishop Kirby will be deeply missed, honored, and revered for generations to come.”