Kerby Ann Gleeson

It is not conceivable to think of Kerby in the past tense.

She is with us, not just in spirit, but in the amazing connection she made with each person, welcoming them into her heart-home with warmth, graciousness, humor, and curiosity.

She was born in Glasgow, Montana on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. At the time Kerby’s father, Ray, was working on the Fort Peck Dam. Kerby Ann cherished her Lakota Sioux heritage and was eager to share her Native history and traditions with all.

Kerby Ann’s family valued education and moved to Spokane, Washington where Kerby attended elementary school and Holy Name High School. She was May Queen for two years in a row as well as senior class president at Holy Name. After attending Carroll College in Helena, Montana, Kerby transferred to Gonzaga University where she graduated. Kerby then became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker after earning her Master’s Degree at University of Washington at the age of 23. Kerby’s love of learning extended to her professional work at Big Brothers, Catholic Charities and at Homeward Bound of Marin as Clinical Director. She supervised and mentored interns, many of whom owe their love of helping others to her. She reminded everyone about people’s innate resilience, resourcefulness, and core wisdom.

In a previous marriage Kerby had two sons, Joel and Gregory. Kerby often talked about creating experiences for her eight grandchildren as the perfect gifts for them to expand their worlds.

Kerby was always up for a party and a celebration. She was a gracious hostess and a convenor, bringing people together to share a meal, tell stories, and, of course, answer “Kerby questions.”

Kerby got to know Howard through their work with Big Brothers of Marin, matching responsible and available mentors with boys who needed a male figure in their lives. They became best friends and eventually their friendship blossomed into an intimate partnership. They were married on 9-9-90! Their home became a gathering place for family, friends, and co-workers. Their Harvest celebrations were beautiful and bountiful expressions of their love and appreciation of friendship, often featuring buffalo stew, simmering over the outdoor firepit.

A grateful thanks to Enma Mazariegos for her loving care provided for Kerby Ann these past two and a half years.

There is no one who knows Kerby who will not miss her. We carry her heart in ours; we celebrate and honor her legacy of loving and giving.