Teresa “Terri” Jean Kirby, 67, of Newman Grove, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 18, 2024, at her home.

Teresa, daughter of Robert and Norma Jean (Johnson) Tillotson, was born on Oct. 1, 1956, in Norfolk. Terri moved with her family to California. There, she attended school and graduated with the class of 1974.

In February of 1976, Terri was united in marriage to Mike Kirby. From this union, Terri was blessed with one son, Jeremy. The couple lived in Nebraska and California until their divorce.

In the autumn of 2000, Terri welcomed three stepsons into her life with the union to J. T. Shepherd in Moorpark, CA. The couple later divorced.

Terri dedicated many years as a conservation supervisor with the California Conservation Corps where she led crews to assist in fighting wildfires and blazing trails through California state parks. In 1995, she led a team of corpsmembers backpacking and working across Australia in an exchange program. Following her retirement, she moved back to Nebraska to be closer to her family, especially her grandchildren.

Terri enjoyed crafting and spending time with her friends and family. Most importantly, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and making long-lasting memories.

Terri is survived by her son: Jeremy (Sara) Kirby, two grandchildren: Dexter and Iris Kirby, all of Norfolk, mother Jean Tillotson of Somis, CA, brother Steve (Donna) Tillotson of Ventura, CA, three stepsons: J. T., Cody, and Dylan Shepherd, along with other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Services will be held at a later date.

Levander Funeral Home of Newman Grove is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.levanderfuneralhome.