Betty Jo Watson Kirby passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025.  After residing on Lake Hickory for many years, she spent her last two years at Brookdale Assisted Living, Falling Creek in Hickory, NC.

 Jo was born January 15, 1932 in Granite Falls, NC, to Isaac and Edna Helton Watson.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 72 years, Ralph H. (Pete) Kirby, and one sister, Shirley Cooper.  She is survived by her children Stephen (Judy) Kirby of Catawba, Michael (Sherry) Kirby of Gastonia, Jan (Joel) Harris of Newton, and Kelli (Jeff) Kaylor of Claremont; one sister, Shelby Caldwell of New Hampshire, 12 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren and her precious dog, Zoe.  She loved her big family fiercely.

 Jo owned and operated Plaza Beauty Salon in Hickory for many years, and later owned and operated Jo’s Better Infants and Children’s Wear in Newton, NC.  She was a faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church in Newton, NC, where she sang in the choir and taught Sunday School.  She also volunteered with Meals on Wheels, The Corner Table and ECCCM in Newton.  Jo was an accomplished painter and an avid flower gardener with a love of working outdoors, even at her home at Assisted Living!

 The family would like to thank Cindy Hudson and crew who cared so lovingly for our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother.  She loved and appreciated all of you as family during her two years at Brookdale.  Also, a heartfelt thank you to Patrice Rockett Muchler who was a special friend and caretaker before Jo moved to Brookdale.  And special thanks to Via Health Partners, formerly Hospice and Palliative Care of Charlotte Region.

 The family will celebrate her life at a private service officiated by Rev. Don Gordon and Rev. Brant Hoots at Trinity Baptist Church in Newton on Thursday, February 13, 2025 with inurnment following the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Baptist Church, POB 4, Newton, NC 28658, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online, or to the charity of your choice.

 Condolences may be made in the comments section below 

 The Kirby family is in the care of Bennett Funeral Service of Newton, 828-465-2111