Bertha Levora Kirby

Mrs. Bertha Liles Kirby, 92, daughter of the late Charlie and Esttella Liles, was born on January 18, 1928 in Anson County, NC. She departed this life on August 23, 2020 at Atrium Health in Charlotte, North Carolina. Bertha grew up working on the family farm with her parents and sisters, Rosa E. Richardson, Charlie Bell Scott, Grace Fant and Lessie Leak. The latter three preceded her in death. She was a faithful member of the Gatewood Station AME Zion Church in Wadesboro, North Carolina. She attended and graduated from Ansonville High School. In June 1948 she married Clyde Kirby, her high school sweetheart, who preceded her in death. To this union were born five children: a son Charles and four daughters, Annie, Krista, Zerelda and Iris. Bertha worked for Radiator Specialty in Charlotte, North Carolina for 26 years. She had a passion for family, basketball and fishing. Bertha was an excellent cook and you never left her house hungry. She never met a stranger and always had a kind word for everybody. Bertha was a dedicated member of East Stone Wall AME Zion Church, where she was an outstanding Class leader and was sought out for her wisdom and unwavering spirit. She also enjoyed singing with the choir. She provided an abundant amount of guidance and care to every member or visitor of the church. Mrs. Bertha Liles Kirby leaves to cherish wonderful memories: her children, Charles Kirby (Bessie), Annie Bolden, Zerelda Black (Eric), Iris Kirby, all of Charlotte, NC and Krista Jeter (James), Rock Hill, SC. Sister, Rosa Richardson of Charlotte, NC. 8 grandchildren, Charles Kirby, Jr., Greensboro, NC, Latonya Kirby, Karen Maxwell, Bridgette Hough, Courtney Redfearn, all of Charlotte, NC, Aaron Redfearn, Indian Trail, NC, Darryl Bolden, Jacksonville, FL, and Chandres Bolden, San Antonio, TX; 20 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great grandchildren and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Bertha also had an incredibly special person in her life, Phyllis Rice. Phyllis was just like a daughter to her and she loved her dearly.