Longtime North Adams Business Woman

Michele Mary (Ferris) Kirby 77 of North Adams, MA. died Friday, January 28, 2022 at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. She was born in North Adams on December 6, 1944 a daughter of the late Freeda (Ferris) Ferris and William Ferris.

Michele attended Freeman Elementary School and was a graduate of Drury High School with the class of 1963. Following graduation, she completed her Degree from McCann School of Cosmetology in North Adams. Michele began her career as a teenager assisting and running errands for her late aunt Margaret Ferris at The Orchid Beauty Salon which is now the oldest North Adams hair salon with its origins dating back to the 1920's. Michele is the last of the long line of hairdressers and barbers from the Ferris family, she continued to own and operate the Orchid Beauty Salon until her passing. The Orchid was a very special place for Michele, especially on Saturdays where her colleagues and customers would stay throughout the day to visit and enjoy a late lunch before marching off to church.

Michele’s love for family and friends extended into the community where she was a communicant of St. Elizabeth Church, a long time member of the Lebanese Social Club, a former member of the North Adams Elks Lodge and a corporator at North Adams Regional Hospital until its closing in 2014. Michele was also actively involved in her children’s schooling as she served several years as President of the PTG at Johnson School and Conte Middle School.

Michele was a remarkable woman who was generous with her love and compassion toward all people and animals, especially cats. Michele was a special gift to all that knew her. Whenever she entered a room, you could never be quite sure what she had done or was going to do, however you could rest assured she would have the room in stitches from her infectious laughter and center of attention- up for anything attitude. Michele’s favorite partner was her sister Diane, the two were inseparable throughout their lives, who between the two of them would always keep their family in awe. Michele and Diane saved their best act for last by leaving this world together less than two days apart.

Michele’s greatest love was her husband Robert whom she married September 28, 1974. Of all the many enjoys and experiences they shared together in their forty-seven years of marriage, sitting on the front porch while listening to Red Sox games was one of their favorite pastimes. Her two children, Evan and Kate were her pride and joy, who throughout her life taught and showed them the unwavering and unconditional power of a mother’s love. The people who took up the greatest space in Michele’s heart, were those who called her, “Sitto”. They were Lennon, Blake, Lilly and Jake. They adoringly loved Sitto, “As big as the world”.

Survivors include her husband Robert G. Kirby. Her children Evan Kirby and Katelyn (Kirby) Millard both of North Adams. Her grandchildren Lennon and Blake Kirby, and Lilly and Jake Millard. She also leaves her loving nieces Lisa Rennell (Aaron) and Kristie Henderson and their children Allyson, Molli , Ashleigh, Reighan and Linleigh. She also leaves many loving extended family members and lifelong friends.

The family would like to graciously thank Michele’s loyal customers and colleagues who have helped preserve the legacy of the Orchid Beauty Shop all these years. Michele fondly referred to these special people as “her ladies” and “special friends”.

Calling Hours for Michele Kirby will take place at the Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Home, WEST CHAPELS, 521 West Main St. North Adams, MA. from 3-7 p.m. on Monday, February 7, 2022. MASKS ARE REQUIRED.

A Liturgy of Christian Burial for Michele Kirby and Diane O'Brien will be celebrated at St. Elizabeth Church in North Adams on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Southview Cemetery, North Adams. Memorial Donations are suggested for St. Jude Hospital, a local animal shelter or doing a small random act of kindness for someone. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.