Kirby Pines Retirement Community | The Pinecone

Get to know Kirby Pines' Harry and Kathy Smith come to Kirby Pines from their previous residence just two miles from our campus in Memphis. Kathy's Mom was an early resident at Kirby Pines and was very happy, this influenced their decision to make the move. Harry was born in Memphis. After attending Memphis State (U of M) he went to Memphis Tech School and majored in printing and graphic design followed by a 57-year career in the graphic arts business. Kathy was born in a very small town in Arkansas named Evening Shade. She went to Lindenwood University and Rhodes College majoring in political science. Kathy assisted Harry in the printing business. Married for 56 years, the Smiths had three children (one is deceased) and they have two grandchildren to dote over. Harry and Kathy enjoy doing volunteer work and traveling. Harry helps at Hope Works, Church Health Center, and The Salvation Army while Kathy is active in The Josephine Circle and The Juvenile Diabetes Association. Their travels have included National Parks, The Caribbean Islands, California Greece Turkey and The Baltic States. Their favorite destination is Machu Picchu in Peru. Friends describe Harry as talkative and fun and they say Kathy is "the life of the party." Sounds like a perfect combination for our Kirby Pines' lifestyle. So, please welcome Harry and Kathy with open arms and a big Kirby smile. Harry & Kathy Smith Bruce Batt Bruce Batt was born in England and comes to Kirby Pines with Riley, his beautiful black lab, from his home a few blocks away on Kirby Parkway. He and his late wife, Liz, were married 53 years and had two children, Carolynn (Deceased) and Alison. He also has four grandchildren. Bruce earned degrees from The University of Manitoba, The University of Florida and Michigan State University. His degrees include Zoology, Forestry, Fisheries and Wildlife. Bruce had a 45-year career in waterfowl research, science and administration with Delta Waterfowl and Ducks Unlimited. Hunting, fishing, bird watching and collecting Arctic books keep Bruce busy in his retirement. Bruce's traveling has included 49 states, Canada, Greenland, England, Ireland, Scotland, parts of Africa, New Zealand and many other destinations. He and Liz planned trips in the Spring to somewhere in Europe for many years. Friends describe Bruce as determined, intelligent, and hardworking. Michigan State University has honored Bruce with two outstanding alumni awards. As a mentor to young professionals in waterfowl conservation, Bruce has enjoyed observing them having remarkable careers. If you haven't met Bruce, hopefully you will soon. His interesting life experiences and expertise in his field make him an asset and true fit for our retirement community. Welcome Bruce and enjoy each day as you make new friends and enjoy our beautiful Kirby Pines. NEW RESIDENTS The Pinecone | October 2025 • 3 • New Resident Bios written by resident, Peggy Reynolds Gatlin