17/10/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Madeline Sylvia Kirby, who left us peacefully on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Burin Peninsula Health Care Centre (BPHCC). Madeline was a deeply cherished soul who brought warmth, kindness, and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Madeline leaves behind her son Mark (Carla), cherished Grandson Mason, granddaughter Randi-Lee, sister Wilma (Heb), brother Tom(Georgina), sister in law Holly(Ken), brothers in law Randy (Dianne) & Cyril Green also other family and friends.
Predeceased by husband Melvin Kirby, parents Violet and Jim Whalen, parents in law Leonard and Lillian, Sister Olive Harding, Brothers Walter Whalen, Jack Whalen and sister in laws Joan and Yvonne, and brother-in-law Jim Hodder.
Madeline was a loving mother, exceptionally proud grandmother, sister, loyal friend, and aunt to many nieces and nephews. Her strength, determination, and unforgettable personality touched many lives. Madeline was a hard worker who took great pride in everything she did whether it was working at the fish plant in Burin or in later years providing home care she made a real impact on all who met her. She was a strong, fiercely independent woman who would be described as being determined, but beneath that determination was an enormous heart.
She loved deeply, and stood by the people who mattered most to her. Once Madeline considered you a friend, you became family in her eyes. She loved nothing more than a good cup of tea and a chat. Her quick wit and great sense of humor was evident in so many of her stories that often left you laughing until your sides hurt. Her blunt honesty, and unique personality made her someone you would never forget.
Madeline was blessed to share 52 years with her loving husband Melvin. She also enjoyed a close relationship with all her siblings and her in laws. Together they raised their son Mark who brought them much pride. Madeline enjoyed a close relationship with her son, Mark, who was her world, and the bond they shared was one of the most important parts of her life. She loved him unconditionally and would do anything for him. Through life's ups and downs, she stood firmly by his side, always ready to offer her love, support, and a helping hand whenever he needed her. He was a constant source of pride and love in her life, and there was never any doubt about how much he meant to her.
Mark and Carla gave Madeline the wonderful gift of becoming a grandmother, a role Madeline embraced with all her whole heart. Her grandson, Mason became the light of her life, the sparkle in her eyes, and her favourite person. Their special bond brought her endless happiness, and she took great pride in being his Nan.
Through countless visits and treasured time together, Mason became a regular part of her weekend and holidays and a great sleepover buddy. Their time together was filled with little adventures, drives, shopping trips, laughter, stories, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether they were on a simple outing or enjoying a special adventure, Madeline always found a way to make their time together memorable. If Mason wanted something, Nan was more than happy to do whatever she could to make it happen. The joy they shared, the laughter they enjoyed, and the love between them were truly special. These were more than just visits or sleepovers; they were precious moments that built a bond Mason will carry with him forever.
Being Mark's mother and Mason's Nan brought Madeline a happiness that words can hardly express. The love she had for them was at the very heart of who she was. She showed her love not only through her words, but through her actions, her unwavering support, her generosity, and the countless little things she did to make sure they knew they were loved. Her family was her heart, and the memories they created together will remain among our most precious gifts.
Madeline was a woman who worked hard, stood her ground, loved fiercely, and gave generously to those closest to her. She may have been stubborn, but she was every bit as loving. Mark will carry the love and memories of his mother with him always, and Mason will grow up with the special memories of his Nan, the adventures they shared, and the unconditional love she gave him.
Madeline's greatest legacy is the love she leaves behind for all those fortunate enough to have known her. She will be missed more than words can express, but she will be remembered with fondness, laughter, and a lifetime of love.
Deep gratitude is extended to her brother Thomas Whelan, sister Wilma Moulton, and niece Suzanne Senior for going above and beyond in caring for Madeline over the last two years, as well as to the staff at the Burin Peninsula Health Care Centre (BPHCC) for their exceptional compassion, care, and patience.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to her wonderful home support workers for their exceptional care, dedication, and kindness. Thank you for ensuring she was always comfortable and truly enjoying her days at home. We are especially grateful to Alvina Adams for the wonderful home-cooked meals she so loved, the drives they shared, and the abundant laughter, comfort, and joy she brought into her life
Madeline's family warmly invites you to join them in remembering her during a public visitation at Serenity Funeral Home (95 Main Street, Burin) on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.h
This will be a special time to gather, share fond memories, and support one another as we celebrate her life and the love she left behind.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday October 21, 2026 at 2PM.
Inurnment will be held on Saturday October 24, 2026 2PM at Bethany United cemetery Burin Bay Arm.
Donations in her memory can be made to the family or Bethany United cemetery fund.
The family has gently entrusted Madeline's final care to the compassionate staff at Serenity Family Funeral Home, located at 95 Main Street, Burin, who are guiding them through this difficult time with warmth and dignity.
We Listen, We Learn, We Walk with You.
