Esther Marie Kirby

April 11, 1924 – March 13, 2023

Esther Marie Kirby, 98, of Ephrata, Washington, slipped peacefully into heaven at the Ephrata hospital on Monday, March 13. Esther was fortunate to be able to live on her own until she was admitted to the hospital 24 hours before her passing.

Esther was born on April 11, 1924, in Twin Falls, Idaho, the daughter of George Simpson Cope and Ozia Mabel Vaughn. She was the seventh of nine children. She was nicknamed “Babe” and was known by “Babe” by her family and close friends throughout her lifetime. On Oct. 2, 1941, she married Kenneth Kirby, and together they had seven children. Kenneth preceded her in death in 1960 and she later married Lawrence Wilhalm in 1972 and has lived in the Quincy and Ephrata area since that time.

Esther was also preceded in death by her daughters Joyce Kirby and Sandra (Bill) Coggins, son Jack Kirby and several grandchildren. Esther is survived by her children Susan (Mark) Fanning, Connie Kirby, Cindy (Eric) Stones and Michael (Jen) Kirby, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Esther enjoyed sewing quilting, canning, knitting, crocheting, gardening, computers, texting on her cell phone, puzzles, cars, and country music.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, March 31 at the Ephrata Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of Nicoles Funeral Home of Ephrata, Washington. Please leave your thoughts and memories for the family at www. nicolesfuneralhome.com.