Patricia Marie Kirby's Obituary
Patricia Marie (Linnell) Kirby 96, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026
surrounded by her family. Patsy was born September 20, 1929 in
Wellesley, the daughter of Robert E and Hilma L Linnell. The Linnell family
proudly owned The Wellesley Townsman and Wellesley Press for over 50
years.
Patsy graduated from Wellesley High School and raised her son Danny
Coleman in Wellesley for a short time. Soon she met and married John F
Kirby and they were married for 59 years. They lived in Dover breeding
thoroughbred race horses on the family farm. They spent their time on the
New England racing circuit from the 1950s-1990s when their son Tim took
over their business. Patsy loved hosting family gatherings on their farm
where her feasts are still renowned among family and friends. Together
they raised Daniel R Coleman, Jonathan Kirby (Mary), Patricia Kirby
Chase, (Russell) and Timothy Kirby (Lisa). After her children were grown,
Patsy went to work at her beloved Townsman starting in the advertising
department and soon advancing to the position of advertising manager.
Patsy loved every minute of her time working at the Townsman and serving
the people of Wellesley.
Upon her retirement and death of her husband in 2011, Patsy moved to
Marstons Mills and lived with her daughter Trish and her husband Russell.
In addition to her parents, Patsy was predeceased by her brothers Robert
and Harry Linnell who both held positions at the Townsman for many years.
Patsy is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren Lindsay Luckraft,
Ashley Fender, Colleen Kirby, Jessica Kirby, Kristen Dragalin, Caitlin
Ciminelli, John Kirby and Courtney Mayo. Patsy is also survived by many
great grandchildren.
Patsy will be buried in Wellesley with her husband John and other family
members. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Patricia?
What’s a lesson you learned from Patricia?
Share a story where Patricia's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Patricia you’ll never forget.
How did Patricia make you smile?