Evelyn Louise Kirby was born June 17, 1936, the fourth of twelve children born to Redman and Thela (Strange) Kennedy. She passed away July 12, 2026 in Meeker at the age of 90.

Evelyn was devoted to her family but never stopped developing her interests and hobbies as well as working until age 78. She was known for her baking and people loved to come and get her homemade bread and rolls. She was a self-taught seamstress and spent evenings sewing quilts, clothing, and quilting. She taught herself to crochet and gave blankets and Afghans to all of her loved ones and friends. Her passion was to go out into the country and walk for miles searching for artifacts of which she had an amazing collection.

She enjoyed playing games with her children and family and was notorious for winning most of the time. She was a girl scout leader and became one of the first women in Winslow to coach a little league baseball team, taking them to the playoffs. Evelyn was able to conquer whatever challenge she faced while doing it with calm and patience. She also served as PTA President for several years while her children were young and in grade school.

Her family was her biggest accomplishment; she often would tell people “idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” With that she was never idle. She was always busy doing something and it was always something that benefitted many and not just a few. Her cooking skills became legendary and people loved to share meals at home.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Ralph Lynn Kirby, Jr., son Ralph Lynn Kirby III, daughter Thella Dean (Dee) Pena, son-in-law, Jonathan Mitchell and numerous siblings. Survivors include her two daughters, Katheryn Kirby-Garcia of Winslow, Arizona and Jacquelynn E. Mitchell of Chandler; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Arrangements are under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston.