Alice Kirby Worthington of Newport News passed away on January 31, 2023 at the age of 97.  Preceding her in death were her husband, Claude; brothers Harold Kirby, Herman Kirby, and Bill Kirby; sister, Virgie Anne Williams; and parents Alma Moore Kirby and Richard Franklin Kirby. She is survived by her sons Bill of Ellicott City, Maryland (Wendy), and Michael of Fort Monroe (Judy); grandchildren Caroline, Nicholas, Christina, and Rachel; great-grandchildren Anna, Ellie, Kai, Sam, and Henry; niece and nephews.

Alice moved to Newport News from Albemarle County, Virginia upon graduation from Scottsville High School. There she met her husband, Claude, and they later married in North Carolina. While Claude was overseas in the Army during WWII, Alice was employed at Newport News Shipbuilding.  Subsequently, the couple lived in Louisiana and Florida, eventually returning to Newport News.

Alice was the epitome of a homemaker. Although she worked occasionally in retail and tax preparation services, her primary focus was her family.  Alice was an exceptional cook. Her meals were carefully presented and balanced but her desserts were her specialty.  She was particularly fond of anything chocolate.

Throughout the years, Alice was active in Temple Baptist and later North Riverside Baptist churches. Well versed in the Bible and Biblical characters, Alice taught Sunday School classes and participated in mid-week activities such as Lottie Moon and Bible Study. 

Alice’s affection for the English language was contagiously gifted to her sons. She always enjoyed a good crossword puzzle and she was an expert in Southern slang.

It was fun to be in Alice’s presence, for she was quick to laugh at herself and make others laugh. Her childhood memories were often the topic of discussion. The mere mention of characters from her youth such as “Laughing Joe” and “Choking Josh” would always generate giggles among those who had the pleasure of hearing her stories.  Alice’s loving attitude and sense of humor will be missed by many.   

A memorial service is scheduled for 10:00 A.M. on February 11, 2023 at the Peninsula Funeral Home in Newport News. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Stroke Association.