Jean M Kirby (nee Pederson)

Jean M. Kirby, a lifelong resident of Duluth, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, at the age of 91.

Jean was born on August 12, 1934, in Duluth to Robert and Ruby Pederson. She grew up in the close-knit community she would call home for her entire life. Jean graduated from Denfeld High School, where she excelled academically and was a proud member of the flag twirling team.

On May 1, 1954, Jean married the love of her life, David R. Kirby. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family, raising five children: Mark (Kathy), Matthew, Daniel (Lori), Samuel (Annmarie), and Beth (Kent Peterson). Jean and Dave worked side by side for most of their working lives, operating Home Garbage Service — remembered fondly by many for its distinctive garbage truck with a racing stripe winding through neighborhood streets and alleys.

Jean was a devoted and active member of The Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity, where she shared her faith through teaching Sunday school and volunteering generously. Later in life, she continued her spiritual journey at Zion Lutheran Church.

Above all else, Jean’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving mother, proud grandmother of 12, and great-grandmother of 11. She had a special gift for making everyday moments memorable—whether it was during a trip to the lake, a nature hike, time in Duluth, or each 10-year-olds trip to anywhere the child wanted to go in America. Her grandchildren knew they were always in for a wonderful time with “JB” (Jeany Babe)—though, as she liked to remind them, “no pop until both hands on the clock stood straight up.”

Jean remembered all the children’s songs, stories, and books and taught them all to the kids. She also shared with them her passion in the kitchen. Her 15-bean soup and roasts were always a hit, and there was never a piece of pie, a cookie, or a bar left over if she had baked it.

Jean is preceded in death by her beloved husband, David; her parents, Robert and Ruby Pederson; and her younger brother, Robert Pederson.

She will be remembered for her warmth, character, strong faith, and the joy she brought to her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the generations she loved so dearly.

A Memorial Service will be held at 12pm on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Spirit of God Lutheran Church, 2431 W 3rd St, Duluth with a Visitation beginning at 11:30am. Burial at Oneota Cemetery.

Arrangements by Williams Lobermeier Boettcher Funeral Home, 218-624-1059.