Mary Kirby

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mary Alice Kirby, age 89, passed away peacefully at her home in Anderson, Missouri, on Thursday, November 28, 2024. She entered this life on February 2, 1935, in Batesville, Arkansas, to the late Jefferson and Mercer Tressie (Willtrout) Mason.

Raised in Sulphur Rock, Arkansas, Mary later moved to Kansas City, Kansas, where she would meet and marry the love of her life, Kenneth Max Kirby, on January 14, 1955. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and the bustling energy of a growing family. In 1989, they settled in Anderson, Missouri.

Mary's dedication to her family knew no bounds. She was a devoted homemaker, a role she embraced with grace and creativity. Her hands were rarely still, as she found joy in crocheting and had a talent for transforming yarn into beautiful creations that warmed the hearts and homes of those she loved.

An avid collector, Mary's home was adorned with treasures that spoke of her appreciation for the unique and beautiful. She had an eye for special finds, whether they were discovered through her love of infomercials or the glossy pages of her favorite shopping magazines. Each item in her collection had a story, and Mary was always eager to share them.

Mary's legacy is lovingly carried on by her three children: Ted Kirby and his wife, Zenaida, of Seneca, Missouri; Dee Kirby and his wife, Jennifer, of Anderson, Missouri; and Kem Smith and her husband, Darrel, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of her six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, who will remember her for her boundless love and the gentle wisdom she imparted. She also leaves behind a brother, Howard Mason of Kansas City, Missouri, and a sister, Rosie Crouch of Independence, Missouri. Both siblings, along with a host of other family members and friends, will miss Mary's presence deeply but will find comfort in the countless memories they shared. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kenneth Max Kirby on November 13, 2002; a son, Max Alen Kirby; a sister, Betty Sims; and four brothers, Jeff Mason, Jay Sims, Albert Sims and Loyd Sims.

Graveside services are 10:00 am Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at Noel Cemetery in Noel, Missouri with Pastor Marilyn O’Brien officiating. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Ted Kirby, Dee Kirby, John Benningfield, Alex Kirby, Dylan Kirby and Tyler Kirby. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.