Emma Jean Castellaw Kirby, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on January 7, 2024, at Baptist Reynolds Hospice House in Collierville, TN.
Born on March 10, 1929, in Brownsville, TN, the daughter of the late Issac Edward and Wennie White Castellaw. Jean led a remarkable life filled with kindness and joy.
Jean was a dedicated Wife and Mother. She began her professional journey in the catalog department of JC Penny where she served for five years. She later began a career with Jackson National Bank (currently Candice Bank) and thrived as the credit card coordinator until her well-deserved retirement. She was a graduate of the former Jackson High School and was a member of the former Oak Grove United Methodist Church in the Westover Community.
Known for her friendly nature, Jean’s warm personality left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Her genuine care and concern for others were evident in both her personal and professional endeavors.
She had a deep passion for gardening and could often be found tending to her vibrant flower garden. Additionally, she cherished the serenity that came from curling up with a good book. Jean was an Amazing “Granny”! She enjoyed spending time with her five grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. These simple pleasures brought her immense happiness throughout her life.
Jean’s memory will be forever treasured by her surviving children, Mark L. Kirby of Cordova, TN, Connie Angela Kirby Harris of Piperton, TN, Marcia Ellen Kirby Dorrough of Jackson, TN, and Joseph Christopher Kirby of Collierville, TN.
Along with her parents Jean was preceded in death by her husband Billie Joe Kirby in 2013. She was also preceded by her siblings, Ike Castellaw, Virginia Caradine, and Marie Jones.
In honor of Jean’s remarkable life journey, a memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 14, 2024, in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors with Rev. Tiffany McClung officiating.
The family welcomes friends, relatives, and all those whose lives Jean touched to join them in remembering and celebrating her life beginning with visitation at 1:00 p.m. and continuing with a service at 2:00 p.m.
It is with deep sadness that we bid farewell to Emma Jean Castellaw Kirby. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing her. May she find eternal peace and serenity in the embrace of her loved ones who have gone before her.
Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, Tennessee 38305
