Our dear Aunt Betty lived a simple life with determined strength and vitality, lovingly coined, "the Energizer Bunny". She always inquired about her great niece and great nephews, genuinely interested in their personal achievements. Aunt Betty never missed the opportunity to send loved ones a card honoring special occasions. She valued a continued connection with her family. Her younger brother, Eddie, held a special place in her heart. She maintained a close and lasting relationship with him in the hope of being reunited again one day. Aunt Betty often fondly remembered her dog, Rusty, who brought her joy, love and true companionship. Our Aunt Betty valued the company of her caretaker, Winsome and close friend, Cynthia. They provided her a sense of comfort and continued friendship.

Aunt Betty loved basking in the sun for hours on end, no matter the temperature outside. She was a true sun worshipper. She could be found feeding the turkeys, squirrels and birds on a sunny day. Aunt Betty was a staunch supporter of the UCONN men and women basketball teams, enjoyed watching westerns featuring John Wayne, and viewing Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel.

Aunt Betty was a creature of habit. Although short and to the point during phone conversations, she religiously provided a daily weather report to her niece, Kara, every night. Up to the age of 91, she possessed an incredible memory, recollecting valued family memories. Aunt Betty always voiced how she thought about us regularly and prayed for us daily. She was truly one-of-a-kind.

We will always lovingly remember Aunt Betty uttering the phrase, "Don't make me get my Irish up!!"

Our Aunt Betty will be in our prayers and her spirit will remain within our hearts, always.

Aunt Betty leaves behind, her nieces Kara Shields (Bill) of Wallingford, Deborah Melillo (Jay) of Westport, MA, her great niece Kirby Marino (Jordan) of Wallingford, her great nephews Will Shields and fiancée Celeste Rice of Wallingford, Ethan Melillo (Daniella) of East Greenwich, RI and Evan Melillo her Godson of Astoria, NY. She was predeceased by her father and mother, Edward and Helen Kirby Sr. and her younger brother, Edward J. Kirby Jr.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at Hamden Memorial Funeral Home, 1300 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT from 9am-11am . A funeral service will be held at 11am at Hamden Memorial. Burial to follow at All Saints Cemetery, North Haven, CT. Condolences may be expressed at Hamdenmemorialfuneralhome.com.