Alice Rita (Cromey) Kirby

Beloved mother and grandmother

Alice Rita (Cromey) Kirby passed away on November 21, 2025, surrounded by her 5 children and other family members. As in life, this somber occasion was filled with laughter, love and reminiscing. Everyone took turns sharing stories of Alice’s mischievous antics, joyful moments and the bonds she shared with her 5 children and her communities.

Born on March 31, 1941, Alice was the second daughter of William David and Margaret (Emery) Cromey. She grew up during a time of polio and global conflicts, which shaped her into a compassionate and community-oriented individual. If someone in need arrived, Alice was the first to step in with open arms to help.

When the historic trees in their community began to die, Alice and other members of the conservation committee dedicated Saturday mornings to tapping elm trees at their roots to deliver life-saving medicine. She did her best to nurture her family and communities with the same love and dedication.

Alice received her education degree at Monmouth College in NJ in the early 1960s, and later completed a Master’s in Clinical Psychology at Rivier College. She served her hometown of Pelham NH as a Selectman, a longtime member of the Conservation Commission, as well as on other local committees and boards. She lived there for more than 25 years raising her family.

Alice (84) was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas, her parents, William & Margaret Cromey, in-laws Charles & Leonie Kirby, and sister Anne-Marie Cromey. She leaves her children: Maria Kirby of Somersworth NH, Gretchen Kirby of Amesbury MA, Jennifer Kirby Macek and husband David of Kensington NH, Joseph Kirby and wife Christine of Gorham ME, and Ira Kirby and wife Andrea of Amesbury MA. She also leaves love for her 14 grandchildren and their families: Jenn Macek (Ricky) Conway, Kelley (Cory) Scardina, Katie Phillips, Charles Kirby, Liam Kirby, Jason (Christina) Phillips, Jessica Kirby, Adrian Kirby, Tavish Kirby, MarLie Macek, Keva Kirby, Andrew Macek, Thomas Kirby and Anna Kirby.

Friends may call on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the PELHAM FUNERAL HOME 11 NASHUA RD. in PELHAM from 4 to 7 P.M. Her Funeral will be celebrated Saturday morning November 29, 2025, at ST. PATRICK'S CHURCH in PELHAM at 11 o'clock. (Please Meet at Church). Committal prayers will follow at Gibson Cemetery. E-condolences/directions at www.pelhamfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation to Riverside Rest Home at 276 County Farm Rd, Dover, NH 03820 riversideresthome.com or the St. Patrick Parish Food Pantry at 12 Main Street, Pelham, NH 03076. Arrangements by Funeral Director James F. O’Donnell, Jr. (603) 635-3333. 

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