Marie-Claire Kirby, special ed teacher
Marie-Claire Kirby, 94, of Ocean View, formerly of Rockville, Md., passed away quietly Thursday, Oct. 9, 2014, after a long and treasured life. She was a unique lady whose gifts touched many lives in many ways. She was born Feb. 9, 1920, daughter of the late Henry and Marie-Claire (Mahaney) Kirby.
Mrs. Kirby graduated from nursing school in Rutland, Vt. at the age of 19, later moving to Washington, D.C., where she worked as a nurse at Doctor's Hospital. She loved to read, play bridge and Scrabble, and do crossword puzzles. She always looked forward to attending weekly meetings of the Visually Impaired Reading Group where she made wonderful friendships since moving to Delaware.
Of all her interests, the greatest love and enjoyment to our mother were her years of teaching, having returned to school at age 53 and received her master's degree in special education. She spent over 20 years of service in the Montgomery County, Md. school system. Even after retiring, she continued to counsel parents and children on learning tools and skills to help them in school and life. She gave generously of herself to her home church, The Shrine of St. Jude in Rockville, Md. and was a strong supporter of St Ann's Catholic Church in Bethany Beach.
The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the caregivers and Hospice associates who were so wonderful in helping them to look after their mother throughout her years in Delaware.
In addition to her parents, Marie-Claire was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, Francis A Kirby; a younger brother, Daniel; and her cherished sister Nellie. She is survived by her children Daniel "Toby" Kirby of Gentry, Ariz., Mary Kathrynn of Ocean View, Jacquelynn of Lanham Md., and Helene-Marie of Washington, D.C.; five grandchildren, Daniel, Kevin, Sharon, Jimmy, and Kathryn all of Indiana; and 13 great-grandchildren.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 8, at St. Ann's Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes.
In lieu of flowers contributions of remembrance may be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148.
Please visit Marie-Claire's Life Memorial webpage to sign her online guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.
