Gertrude S. Kimble

Gertrude Kimble, 97, of Monmouth Beach, NJ passed away peacefully on February 18th, 2026. Gert was surrounded with an immense amount of love, leaving behind a legacy defined by a devotion to family, creativity and living a wonderfully busy life!

Born in Brooklyn, NY on August 17th, 1928, Gert was the daughter of Adeline and Karl Stich, who emigrated from Germany in search of a better life. She was raised in New Jersey alongside her beloved sister, Margaret.

Gertrude met the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Kimble, and together they were married for 57 remarkable years. As partners in both life and work, they founded Kimbo Educational, a venture that carried them across the country teaching dance and sharing their passion with countless students and communities. This evolved into a leading children's music company that still exists today. Their work was not just a business, but a reflection of their energy, teamwork, and love of the arts.

Gert and Bob were proud parents to two sons, Jeffrey (Harry) and James (Jim). She found her greatest happiness in raising her boys, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories in Deal, NJ. Family was always at the center of her world - she took immense pride in nurturing those around her.

Gert had an adventurous spirit and a deep love for seeing the world. Travel was one of her greatest joys, especially cruising - a passion that carried her across oceans and introduced her to destinations around the globe. She relished the excitement of setting sail, discovering new cultures, and collecting stories from every port of call.

She and Bob also cherished their years in Jupiter, Florida, where they made their winter home and enjoyed countless years of visits from their family. Those seasons were filled with sunshine, yet their love of the water extended far beyond a winter escape. Yachting became a way of life. For decades, they spent summers living aboard their boat, the 'Kimbo' navigating the Hudson River north to Canada and traveling south along the Intracoastal Waterway to Florida. Those voyages were more than boating trips - they were chapters of a life lived.

Wherever she was - at sea, in Florida, or closer to home - Gert maintained a vibrant social life. She treasured time with friends and family, loved gathering around a table for exceptional food and could often be found savoring an ice-cold Pinot Grigio.

Gert was also a passionate and outspoken advocate for the values she believed in. A steadfast supporter of the Democratic Party, she cared deeply about equality, fairness, and human rights. She believed in standing up for others and hoped for a world that offered dignity and opportunity to all.

Her greatest gift - and her most enduring legacy - is the family who loved her so deeply and whom she loved beyond measure. She is survived by her son Harry and his children, Erika (Keith) Marx and Robert "Bobby"; and by her son Jim and Pam Kimble, along with their children Max (Amy) Kimble, Christina (Rick) Woods, and Tyler (partner, Danica) Kimble. She also leaves behind her cherished brother-in-law, Warren (Lorraine) Kimble, as well as an extended circle of nieces, nephews and cousins - all who were touched by her warmth and genuine spirit.

Lastly, Gert had many great-grandchildren: Jaxson, Mika, Hudson, Zoe, Koa, Maia, Bella, Maddox & Zephyr - each of whom carried a special place in her heart. Seeing her family grow across generations was one of her life's greatest joys. Though she will be profoundly missed, the memories she created and the love she gave so freely will endure forever.

If you wish to make a donation in Gert's memory, she was a longtime supporter of animal rescue, democracy & equality and veteran affairs. Gert aka Gerty/Momma/Grandma/Oma will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A small, private celebration of life will take place soon. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.