Betty Jean Kirby

Born Helen Jean Shipley on February 7, 1926 in Bishop, California to Mabel A. & John E. Shipley. Betty passed away on June 4, 2015 with her family by her side. Betty was preceded in death by her two children, Judy and Mike Kirby and her brother Jack Shipley.

Betty was an original founding member of Republican Women of Merced and was a member of her Sorority; Beta Sigma Phi Betty was also a proud Member and President of the Woman’s Club of Merced. You could find Betty, on most days playing or hosting her bridge group! Betty worked in San Francisco for many years at Barclays Bank in the Financial District. She came back to Merced and was hired at One Hour Martinizing. The rest of her career was spent managing the store on “R” Street.

Betty is survived by her three Grandchildren, Meg Kirby, Kelly Kirby-Sellers & Husband Bill, Ric Kirby & wife Dana. Also surviving are her five Great Grandchildren Jeff Kammerer, James & Mark Sellers and Meredith & Morgan Kirby. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews! Special love & thanks go to Aunt Shirley & Cousin Chris Kirby for being by Nannas side and helping us with her every need. We would also like to thank Amy, Fergus & Milan at Hylond for taking such good care of her. Nana will be greatly missed.

Services are being held on Thursday June 25th at 11:00 a.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home 1490 B Street Merced CA, 95341. Reception immediately following at the hall at Stratford and Evans. Burial will be private.