Thomas Erby Kilby Sr. (July 9, 1865 – October 22, 1943) was an American politician.

A mob quickly formed, and a concerned citizen notified Governor Thomas Kilby that there might be a lynching.

Kilby ordered the two to be transferred to the relative safety of prison in Wetumpka, Alabama.

In 1920, Kilby arbitrated the settlement of the lengthy and violent 1920 Alabama coal strike, ruling clearly against the demands of the United Mine Workers of America.

In 1921, he was depicted on the Alabama Centennial half dollar, making him the first person to appear on a US coin while still alive.