Hanna Lavera Kirby's Obituary
Hanna Lavera Kirby, age 89, of Centerville, formerly of Bloomfield, passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Born on January 1, 1937, Hanna entered the world as a New Year's baby, the daughter of Everett Harold "Jake" Wilkinson and Reva Marie (Padget) Wilkinson. A proud graduate of Troy High School's Class of 1954, she continued her education at Indian Hills Community College before beginning her career as a secretary in a dental office, where her kindness and warm smile made lasting impressions on those around her. On June 5, 1955, Hanna was united in marriage to Jackie Dale Kirby, and to this union, two children were born, Randy and Glenda.
Above all else, Hanna cherished her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent sharing stories, laughter, and love with them. Whether cheering them on, preparing favorite treats, or simply sitting together visiting, she made each one feel deeply loved.
Hanna found happiness in the everyday moments that made a house feel like home. She enjoyed long walks, getting lost in a good book, dancing to familiar music, working puzzles, sewing, gardening, and quilting beautiful pieces stitched with care. Holidays were especially meaningful to her, as her kitchen filled with the aroma of homemade candies and treasured family recipes. She also enjoyed relaxing with game shows on television and faithfully attended the Bloomfield Christian Church every Sunday, where her quiet faith remained an important part of her life.
Left to cherish Hanna's memory are her children, Randy Kirby and Glenda (Larry) Long; her grandchildren, Heather (Tyler) Baze, Michael (Chelsey) Swarts, and Hallie Kirby; her great grandchildren, Kennedy Smothers, Asher Baze, Brayden Hopkins, Marissa Kirby, Jayden Hayes, Corbyn Morgan, and Brody Schmell; her siblings, LaDonna Piper, Lavenia Davis, Cindy Knock, and Loren Wilkinson; as well as numerous extended family members.
Hanna was preceded in death by her husband, Jackie Kirby on September 3, 2021; her parents, Jake and Reva Wilkinson; her granddaughter, Holly Swarts; and her siblings, Laverda Rupe, Hildred Gordy, and Leon Wilkinson.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00AM, Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville, with Pastor Don Naftz officiating. Burial will follow the service at Sunset View Cemetery in Moulton. Visitation will take place Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home with the family greeting friends from 10:00AM-11:00AM. Memorials can be written to either Randy Kirby or Glenda Long, to be designated at a later date, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Kirby Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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