Monnie Lee Brookshire Kirby

Monnie Lee Brookshire Kirby, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 94. Born at home in Gordon County on November 19, 1930, to Rev. Hershel Brookshire and Maudie Ralston Brookshire. Monnie was one of ten children in a lively and loving family.

She married Henry Jackson Kirby, and together they raised two children, Diane Sutherland and Michael Kirby, whom she adored beyond measure. Monnie’s love for her family was immeasurable, and her greatest joy was in sharing that love with those around her. She would often express her affection with her endearing phrase, "I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck."

Monnie spent time working in the textile industry, but it was her unwavering faith and devotion to Jesus Christ that defined her life. A lifelong member of Mt. Carmel Church of Jesus Christ, she held the distinction of being the oldest member of the congregation. Her deep love for the Lord was evident in her daily life, especially through her hours of quiet, contemplative prayer. She found peace and purpose in her faith, and her gentle spirit and devotion touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Outside of her faith, Monnie’s passions included embroidery, gardening, and cooking. She took great pride in the meals she prepared and the beautiful things she created with her hands. Her garden was a reflection of her nurturing heart, and her home was always open to loved ones, offering comfort, warmth, and care.

Monnie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Henry Kirby; her siblings, Wallace Brookshire, Ed Brookshire, Sam Brookshire, Mae Pierce, Oneita Pankey, Aileen Parker, and Evelyn Haulk; her son-in-law, Daneward Sutherland, and one grandson, Shane Michael Kirby. 

She is survived by her sisters, Frances Craig and Inez Kilgore; her children, Diane Sutherland and Michael and his wife Janie Kirby; grandchildren Stephanie Kinman and her husband Brad, Shaun Sutherland and his wife Chasity, Aaron O’Shields, Nathan O’Shields, Megan Coker and husband Leaton. Surviving great-grandchildren include: Dalyn Silvers, Jaxson Silvers, Hudson Kinman, Lola Mitchell, Moxi Sutherland, James O’Shields, Abby O’Shields, Savannah O’Shields, Wyatt Schooley, Keatlee Coker, Ryle Coker, Huntleigh Coker. Surviving great, great-grandchildren include: Hudson Shook, Cohen Ramirez, and Stella O’Shields. 

The family invites the community to a visitation for Monnie at Thomas Funeral Home on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2024, from 2-4pm. A funeral will be conducted on Monday, Feb. 3, 2024, at 2pm in the chapel of Thomas Funeral Home with Rev. Arvil Craig, Jr. officiating. Faye Bentley and Mike Bunch will share music to honor Monnie. The grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include: Troy Parker, David Brookshire, Travis Brookshire, Gary Fuller, Coy Parker, and Marvin Brookshire. A graveside service will follow the funeral at Haven of Rest with Rev. Brad Kinman presiding. 

Thomas Funeral Home is honored to serve the beloved family and friends of Monnie Lee Brookshire Kirby at this time of reflection and love of her life.