Shirley Marie Kirby

Shirley Kirby passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 11. She was born in Indianapolis on August 18, 1935 as the only child to Philip and Maxine Neal. She was preceded in death by her husband, Theodore Gordon Kirby, Sr.; her son, Theodore Gordon Kirby, Jr.; and her grandson, Ryan Kirksey.

Shirley was a proud mother, grandmother, and great grandmother and is survived by her children Pam Puckett, Kris Kirby, Darla Barton, Linda Kirby, and Tennis Kirby. Shirley also leaves behind grandchildren Sean Kirksey, Michael Puckett, Jessica Puckett, Courtney Held, Mike Held, Jenny Held, Dustin Kirby, Eric Kirby, Ashley Stewart, Stephanie Smith, Katie Sperka, Bayli Kirby-Palacios, and Sierra Kirby, and 10 great grandchildren.

Shirley married Gordon in 1952 and they were married until his death in 1990. She had been a volunteer at Community East Hospital for nearly 30 years, a member of the Women’s Auxiliary at Old Bethel United Methodist Church for many years, and was an active and involved mom when her children were in school. As her youngest children got older, she worked at LS Ayres and Sears and was often recognized with top sales awards.

Her favorite activities were spending time with her big family, reading her who-dun-it mystery novels, and watching her favorite TV shows. She thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the activities and experiences of all of her family members, delighting in their many stories and accomplishments.

She also loved traveling with her children. Two of her favorite memories were visiting the 110th floor open-air observation deck at the World Trade Center and having people recognize her in the elevator after winning at slot machines in Las Vegas.

Shirley made friends easily and over the years was blessed with many caring friends. She enjoyed the new friendships she’d made over the last few years at Wickshire Senior Living. People always remarked about her beautiful blue eyes and appreciated her warm and friendly demeanor and her sense of humor.

Visitation will be Monday, April 17, 2023, from 11AM – 1PM at Flanner and Buchanan Washington Park East, followed by the funeral service at 1PM. She will be laid to rest at Washington Park East Cemetery next to her husband Gordon.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Old Bethel United Methodist Church Food Pantry.