Linda Sue Kirby

Linda Sue Drinkard-Kirby, 76, of May, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home on September 18, 2025. Born on October 12, 1948, in Longview, to Jerry Drinkard, Jr. and Etta Alene Tucker-Drinkard, Linda was raised in Odessa, where she was a proud graduate from Permian High School in 1967. During her school years, she was active in numerous organizations, including the Future Homemakers of America, Permian and Odessa College choirs, Girls in Action, and the Girl Scouts. On February 10, 1968, Linda married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, David Manford Kirby, in Odessa. Their 57-year marriage was filled with devotion, encouragement, and shared service. Together, they faithfully served their church by teaching children and youth, as well as participating in mission trips, choirs, and retreats. Linda was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ who joyfully shared her faith throughout her life. Education was extremely important to Linda. In 1981, she felt called to teach in public schools. She pursued her education through Odessa College, Hillsboro Junior College, and the University of Texas Permian Basin, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Reading. She held certifications as an Elementary English and Self-Contained teacher, a Reading Specialist, and a Principal. Linda devoted 26 years to education as both a teacher and administrator, leaving a lasting legacy of service. Among her many accomplishments, she was most proud of organizing students to make dolls that were sent to New York after 9/11, leading efforts to collect and send over 700 pounds of supplies to soldiers overseas, organizing health fairs, and partnering with a local church to provide 105 pillowcase dresses for girls in Africa. In addition to her career in education, Linda and David operated several businesses, including Accelerando Music Service and Red Door Antiques II. She had a passion for music and antiques, enjoying the process of collecting and sharing unique pieces with others. Some would say that she collected more than she shared. Linda loved to travel and experienced the beauty of God's creation both internationally and across the United States. Her journeys took her to Mexico, England, Germany, Austria, Italy, Turkey, Greece, and Crete. In retirement, she and David traveled extensively by camper and motorhome, and she especially cherished taking her grandchildren on "Nana and Pawpaw trips." Linda treasured her heritage and family, and took great pride in their accomplishments. Her hobbies included painting, singing, reading, cooking, and quilting, for which she won several awards. She was also proud to be a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry Drinkard, Jr., and Etta Alene Tucker-Drinkard, as well as her in-laws, Doyle Kirby and Delora Goodin-Kirby.

Linda is survived by her devoted husband, David Kirby of May; her son, Greg Kirby and his wife, Christi, of Houston, along with their children, Gregory and Emma, Hannah, Matthew, and Tanner Eckel, and great-granddaughter, Ariah Kirby; and her daughter, Amanda Kirby-Hart, and her husband, Jayson, of Odessa, with their children, Haley and Hagen. She is also survived by her sister, Patty Drinkard-Overcash of Austin; her niece, Angela Neary-Hughes, her husband, Adam, and their child, Finn, of Austin; her sister-in-law, Cindy Kirby-Harrison and her husband, Robert, of Roswell, New Mexico; and her nephews, Clint Lee and his wife, Cassie, and Dustin Lee and his wife, Judy, of Odessa. Linda will also be remembered with love by numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family members, and many dear friends.

A very special thanks to Kinder Hearts of Brownwood & Early for their exceptional care over the last year. Instead of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.

Family and friends will gather on October 12th for a celebration of life.