Linda Kirby

Linda Marie (Allison) Kirby, born to Roger Blaine Allison Jr. and Helen Fern Hill Allison in Ogden, Utah, joined her sweetheart, Michael Elvis Kirby, on the other side of the veil just two days short of her 78th birthday. After a struggle with Alzheimer’s, she passed peacefully in the early morning hours of August 15, 2025, amidst the company of friends and family at Summit Senior Living in Kearns, Utah.

Mike and Linda were married on July 3, 1969. Shortly afterward, they moved into their home in West Jordan where she lived for over fifty years. Theirs was a strong bond of companionship that endured all the ups and downs that life had in store for them. One of their dreams was to explore Alaska together, which they finally had the opportunity to do in 2014. She cherished those memories for the rest of her life. Though considered unlikely by many, she held fast to the belief that their union would one day be sealed in a temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On March 17, 2017, that long-held hope was fulfilled in Draper, Utah.

For many years, she found great satisfaction as a warrantee administrator at Larry H. Miller’s Automotive Group, where she enjoyed the comradery and friendship of her colleagues. She retired early so she could care for her husband as he prepared to step into the next life.

Linda and Mike shared their enjoyment of being “in the mountains”: camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and relaxing around a campfire with loved ones. One of her favorite pastimes, even into her final weeks, was taking drives up the canyon. Yellowstone National Park held a special place in her heart, especially for watching wildlife. She was particularly drawn to the bison—whom she affectionately called Tatanka—a reflection of her respect and admiration for Native American cultures. She enjoyed attending Native American Pow Wows, often convincing any available grandchildren to join her on the adventure.

Linda was kind and caring, but quite the spit fire when she needed to be. She had a strong emotional bond with each of the pet dogs she had throughout her life. When her grandchildren, Doug and Samantha, lost their mother as young teens, Linda and Mike stepped in without hesitation, becoming their guardians and continuing to raise them with love and care. In her later years, those roles reversed, and they cared for her. Linda frequently accompanied Sam in her work supporting individuals with disabilities, and in doing so, she showed her enduring spirit of compassion and service by connecting with and supporting those whom Sam served.

Linda is survived by her sons Michael Kirby (Jayel), Thomas Kirby (Sandy), and Dwaine Kirby (Gina), sister Janet Thomas (Craig) and brothers Scott Allison (Emily) and Brent Allison (Patty). She was preceded in death by husband Mike, daughter Leisha and sister Joan. She has 20 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren, whose names are not listed here, but are infused within her soul. Moreover, Linda lovingly “adopted” others into her family circle. Their names will remain etched on her heart for eternity.

Her family expresses gratitude to the medical and care-giving staff at Ability Hospice, Summit Senior Living in Kearns, Holy Cross Hospital in West Jordan, and Monument Health in Taylorsville.

A visitation for friends and family will be held at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home at 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway, in South Jordan, Utah on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. All are invited to attend the funeral at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1899 West 7600 South in West Jordan, Utah, at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. There will be a brief viewing preceding the service at 11:00 am, followed by a family prayer at 11:45. Interment will be at Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park at 17111 South 1700 West in Bluffdale, Utah.