Betty Ann Kirby

With deep sorrow and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of Betty Ann Kirby—a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Betty passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Born in Swansea, South Carolina, on January 20, 1943, Betty was the daughter of Hampton Lee and Lila Mae Callahan and was later lovingly adopted by Deenie Dell and Mary Louise Hughes. From an early age, Betty embraced her Christian faith wholeheartedly. A devout follower of Christ, her love for Jesus was the foundation of her life. She never missed a chance to share His teachings, and her unwavering faith served as an inspiration to everyone who knew her. Betty’s life was a radiant testimony to the grace, love, and power of God.

In her early years, Betty worked as a seamstress for Amblers, Stone Manufacturing of North, and the Swansea Sewing Room. She also co-owned the Drive-In restaurant with her husband, Earl Lenwood Kirby, during their younger years. However, her greatest joy came later in life when she embraced the role of a full-time homemaker, devoting herself fully to the care and nurturing of her family.

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Earl Lenwood Kirby; daughters, Cheri Lynn Kirby Williams Harmon and Lonita Hoffman; and son, Earl Lenwood “Woody” Kirby Jr. She was also predeceased by her brother, Hampton Lee “Rock” Callahan; sisters, Margaret Callahan Briggman and Emma Mae Huffer; and her dear sister-in-law, Susie Williams Kirby.

She is survived by her loving family, who will carry her memory forward with devotion:

Daughters: Dallas Rena Bolin (Jody) of North, SC, and Betty Lynn Arnold of Pendleton, SC; Daughter-in-law: Kim Kirby of North, SC, widow of Woody Kirby; Grandchildren she raised: Tillman Edward Williams Jr. (Amanda) of North, SC and Julianna Harmon Aristizabal (Juan), of Greenville, SC; additional Grandchildren: Christopher Talero, Stacey Kirby, Ashley Lucas, Preston Williams, Charles Kirby, Dylan Arnold, and Tiffany Martin; Great-Grandchildren: 11 cherished great-grandchildren; special Pet Companions: Snowbell and Betsy, her loyal furry friends.

Betty’s love for her family and for her Lord were the cornerstones of her life. She was a woman of grace, kindness, and generosity, always ready with a kind word or prayer. Her legacy of faith, devotion, and love will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate to know her.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at Thompson Funeral Home, 1012 Whitman St. SE, Orangeburg, SC 29115.

A funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM, officiated by Rev. David Lee Mitchell.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Tillman Edwards Williams Jr., Tillman Edward Williams, Marty Preston Williams, Charles Lenwood Kirby, Christopher Talero, and Juan Aristizabal.