Obituary of Justin Kirby Spires

Justin Kirby Spires, age 39, passed away on August 25, 2023. He was born on September 1, 1983 to Timothy J. Spires and Mary Knotts.  Justin is survived by his 20-year-old daughter, Jasmin Kaleigh Spires (m. Kendra L. Livingston); his father, Timothy J. Spires (Olivia); his mother, Mary Knotts-Francis (Mitch); his sister, Darlene Spires; and his two brothers, Jeremy McDuffie and Timothy J. Spires, Jr.

Growing up around his father’s automobile repair business, Justin developed his love of cars and tools. It was only natural that at the age of 15, he joined his father in his business Tim’s Auto, which would later be located on Pineview Rd. in Columbia, SC. He loved his job and being able to work alongside, not only his hero, Tim, but also his uncle and best friend, the late J.W. Spires (d. 2019). After the family business closed in 2019, Justin worked at JD Byrider on Beltline Blvd., Mavis Tire on Bluff Rd. & Garners Ferry Rd. or wherever his skills were needed, whether it was the side of the road, another business or someone’s yard.  When he wasn’t under the hood of a car, he was just as likely to be found making someone laugh with his hilarious antics, answering a question or just lending a helping hand to anyone in need.

Justin never met a stranger. He was a hero to so many and a friend to all. His phone was constantly going off with calls and notifications from people seeking his knowledge, his skills or just his company. He lived in the moment and was determined to live life to the fullest.

Justin loved his treasures, whether it was one of his many and extensive collections, his loyal canine companion, Fise, or his favorite collection-his shoes. However, his greatest treasure & his biggest source of pride is his daughter Jasmin. Anyone who spent time around Justin eventually came to feel as if they knew Jasmin even if they’ve never actually met her. He was always telling stories, sharing her accomplishments or just mentioning her throughout his casual conversations.  She was the only true love of his life and the reason behind everything and anything good he had done since he was 19 years old and welcomed her in this world beside her mother, Kendra L. Livingston.

Justin had a natural charisma and magnetism (not to mention that dimple in his cheek) that drew people in. His wit & sense of humor guaranteed that when it was time for him to go, he left behind an unforgettable memory or a story to tell.  He had an uncanny ability to turn anyone who wanted to be his enemy or rival one week into someone he would be hanging out with or riding motorcycles with the next week. Justin never hesitated to come to the aid of anyone who asked for his help. His assistance may not have been immediate but he always managed to come through with a solution just in time and was always worth the wait. 

While Justin’s passing leaves behind a trail of broken hearts and so many mourning the loss of his beautiful soul, he also left behind so many countless memories in the hearts and minds of everyone who met him. Most importantly, he created a legacy of love so vast it could not be expressed in words.  At this time, the family asks that everyone express that love by helping support his daughter and the family through this incredibly difficult tragedy.