Edith M. “Edie” Kirby, age 90, formerly of Marion, died early Thursday morning, September 24, 2015, at Woodside Village in Mount Gilead following an extended illness.
On May 27, 1925, Edie was born in Marion, Ohio, the only daughter of four children of the late George W. and Carrie E. (Enos) Miller. She graduated from Marion Harding High School.
Shortly following graduation, Edie began working as an assistant to the president of Marion County Bank in 1943, at the age of 18.
Several years later, Edie was introduced to a young World War II veteran, Joseph E. Kirby, by mutual friends and the rest was history. Edie and Joe were a great match for one another, both having “generous hearts and gentle spirits.” They were married on June 20, 1953, sharing over fifty six wonderful years, and lovingly raising two children together. He preceded her in death on November 24, 2009.
A loving homemaker, Edie took pride in caring for her husband, children, and their home. She was the “perfect mother,” keeping an immaculate house, being an exceptional cook, and managing all of her responsibilities with such grace. Once her children were raised, she then returned to the Marion County Bank, which later became Bank One, where she worked as a loan officer. She worked at the bank for over thirty three years in total, retiring in 1989. She also had been a member of the Marion Business Professional Women’s group.
A woman of faith, Edie was a member of the St. Mary Church. Edie and Joe also lived a life of service to Marion Catholic High School, living on the school grounds at the Kirby House, helping in any way they could. One of Edie’s favorite responsibilities while caring for the grounds at the school, was mowing.
Known as the “party planner,” Edie loved to be surrounded by her family and friends, so she would plan parties as often as she could. She especially loved her 4th of July celebrations, always dressing up like Uncle Sam. She truly was the “life of the party.” She also loved to go shopping, often with the intent of spoiling her grandchildren.
Truly one of the sweetest women you could ever have met, Edie lived a selfless life of compassion for her family, friends, church, and for everyone at her Marion Catholic School family.
Left to cherish her memory are her two children: Thomas (Suzanne) Kirby of Mount Gilead, and Ann (Michael) Hood of Ada, OH; seven grandchildren: Kyle (Sarah), Carrie, Clint, and Cole Kirby, Shaun (Molly) Hood, Chelsey and Kelly Hood; three great-grandchildren: Rowan and Sawyer Kirby, and Ryleigh Hood; a brother, George (Barbara) Miller of Marion; a sister-in-law, Marianne Miller of Columbus, OH; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Including her husband and parents, Edie was preceded in death by two brothers: Thomas and Joseph Miller.
Her family will greet friends from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 26th, at St. Mary Church, 251 N. Main St., Marion, where a time of sharing and eulogies will follow at 10:30 a.m. A mass of Christian burial will then be held at 11:00 a.m., with Father Thomas Buffer officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, and they may be sent to the care of the funeral home.
Gunder/Hall & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Edie’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
