Nellean Augusta Kirby

Nellean was born October 6, 1930 in Reyno, AR to Roy C. and Bertha A. Lane. She married William F. Kirby on March 15, 1952. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage before he passed on October 6, 2015.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Terry Shute; granddaughter, Amber Kirby; sister, Roberta Dunn; and brother, R.C. Lane.

She is survived by her children, including her son, William Michael (Becky) Kirby of Jackson, MO; daughters, Barbara (friend, Chad Calvert) Shute of Fairview Heights, IL, Judy (Dennis) Latinette of Belleville, IL; grandchildren, Angela (Daniel) Nesbit, Scott (Rachel) Latinette, Heather (Lucas) Cook, Jason Kirby; great grandchildren, Noah, Leo and Colin Nesbit, Riley Kluesner and Kane Cook; step-grandchildren, Amy (Roy) Youngs, Doug Shute; and step-great granddaughters, Brielle and Jules Johnston.

Nellean worked as a homemaker, devoted to her loving family. She was a skilled seamstress and was also an exceptional cook. In years past, she and her family would go camping together, which brought memories they will share forever.

She will be remembered fondly for her extra special milkshakes and many games of Go Fish and Old Maid she played with her grandchildren. Her beautiful spirt and love for others will be cherished forever. She will truly be missed.

Memorial donations may be made to the Colleen Nesbit Memorial Foundation.

A visitation for Nellean will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 11:00 A.M.- 1:00 P.M. at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.

A funeral service will be held following the visitation, at 1:00 P.M. Interment will be held privately at a later date at Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville, IL.