A Kenly native who died last week in a drive-by shooting in Greenville is being remembered for his energy, work ethic and sense of humor.

Charles Andrew “Drew” Kirby, 29, a 1998 graduate of North Johnston High School, was killed June 30 when a man fired shots outside a nightclub near where Kirby was standing.

Landon Blackley, an East Carolina University student, was also killed in the shooting. Police have identified James Earl Richardson, a former professional basketball player in Europe, as the suspect in the case. He surrendered to police over the weekend.

Kirby’s father, Craig, said he left Kenly about nine years ago to attend Pitt Community College, where he earned an associate’s degree in business administration. He worked part-time at Michelangelo’s Pizza in Greenville while attending school and became a manager there after he graduated.

“He loved the restaurant business,” Craig Kirby said, adding that his son’s goal was to eventually own a restaurant of his own.

Kirby was dedicated to his job, his father said, and he was loved by employees and customers alike. “The pizza shop was probably the biggest part of his life,” Craig Kirby said. “He’d even go in on his days off.” Craig Kirby attributed his son’s success in the restaurant business to his personality and his “ability to laugh at everything.”

“He’s very outgoing,” Craig Kirby said. “He knew no strangers.”

Kirby’s co-workers at Michelangelo’s declined to be interviewed, citing their stress in the wake of the tragedy. “We’re walking on eggshells right now,” said one co-worker, who didn’t give his name.

When he wasn’t working at the restaurant, Kirby enjoyed fishing and boating. He played baseball throughout middle and high school, but gave up the sport when he went to college.

In addition to his father, Kirby is survived by his mother, Pam Whitley Kirby; a brother, Ryan Kirby; and his paternal grandparents W.L. and Edith Kirby of Lucama.