On October 10, 2024, Melissa Lynn Kirby passed away peacefully at home in Towson, Maryland. She was the beloved daughter of Catherine (Savena) and George Sarkis; loving wife of Matthew Kirby; devoted mother of Colette Savena Christine Kirby and Kingston George Kirby; cherished sister of Stephanie Hickey (Dan) and Jessica Sarkis (Justin Congleton). Dear aunt of Maeve, Leo, and Malcolm Hickey, and Lewis Congleton.

Melissa ("Missy") was born in Buffalo, New York on February 11, 1972. After a brief move to Pittsburgh, in the late 1970's Missy moved to Columbia, Maryland with her parents where her family raised her and her two younger sisters. Throughout her life and beginning early on, Missy was influential among peers and various social circles. Missy was a loving friend to all, without judgment, and never spoke an unkind word.

Missy attended The University of Pittsburgh in her parent's native city. After graduating from Pitt, Missy lived in New York City. Missy later moved to Los Angeles to be with Matt, until they eventually settled in Baltimore, Maryland. In the early 2000's, Missy founded Shine Collective based out of a small space in the Hampden neighborhood of Baltimore. The store, like Missy, was well loved by many and had a positive impact on the growth of Hampden. She was passionate about her family, friends, fashion, food, health, and fitness. Missy loved being a mother and was deeply involved in her children's lives as well as the Baltimore community. As founding parents of the kids charter school, Tunbridge, you could usually find Missy volunteering at the school or taking them to practice and playdates.

Missy was highly valued, loved, and respected in her community. The loss of Missy's presence will be felt tremendously, but her legacy and spirit will live on forever, especially in the hearts of her loved ones.

A celebration of Missy's life will be held at a later date and will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The American Stroke Association.