Annie Pearl Moretz Kirby

Annie Pearl Moretz Kirby, lovingly known as Ann, passed away peacefully at her home on October 23, 2026, in Alexander County. She was born on July 1, 1939, in Alexander County, and her life remained deeply rooted in the community she loved.

Ann and her husband Lindsey were second generation dairy farmers. Farming was far more than her work; it was a calling that shaped the way she lived and served others. She enjoyed farming, gardening, and flowers, and found joy in the beauty and purpose of a life close to the land. She in her school years also enjoyed playing the trombone and played softball. A member of Mt. Bethel Methodist Church, Ann lived with a steady faith and a generous heart.

Ann was a true Proverbs 31 woman, beautifully reflecting the qualities of a virtuous woman through her unwavering faith, strength, wisdom, kindness, and selfless love for others. She had a great sense of humor and brought warmth and lightness to the lives of those around her. Her family was the center of her world. She loved and cherished her family and took special joy in raising her children. She loved cooking for her family and always made sure no one was ever hungry, offering not only meals, but comfort, care, and a home where everyone felt welcome.

Over the years, Ann and her husband Lindsey hosted numerous community hayrides and school field trips to visit the dairy, sharing a love of farming with people throughout the community. Through those efforts, Ann helped create memories for countless families and children, and her kindness and hospitality reached far beyond her own home.

She leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory forward with gratitude and affection: her children, Kathy Kirby Reece and her husband Keith, Anita Kirby Bostian and her husband Chris, and Lindsey Kirby, Jr. and his wife Gina; her grandchildren, Joshua Reece and his wife Shanna, Matthew Reece and his wife Brittany, John Bostian and his wife Hannah, Jordan Bostian and his wife April, Jonah Bostian and his wife Charis, Logan Kirby and his wife Haley, Caleb Kirby and his wife Joleigh, Lauren Kirby Hall and her husband Avery, Jordan Moore and his wife Madison, Zachary Moore and his wife Morgan, and Abigil Moore; and 25 very loved great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Judy Sigman and her husband Frank. Judy and Ann shared a special bond. Judy spent countless days with Ann, offering loving companionship, care, and support.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Claude and Sallie Icard Moretz; her brothers, Daniel “Buster” Moretz and Harley Moretz; her sisters, Nancy Baker and Nesta Beard; and her daughter-in-law, Lisa Brewer Kirby.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Mt Bethel Methodist Church, 9042 NC-127, Hickory, NC 28601. The funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will be at Old Pisgah Cemetery in Bethlehem. Pastor Brad Caldwell and Pastor Neil Bowman will officiate. Joshua Reece, Matthew Reece, John Bostian, Jordan Bostian, Jonah Bostian, Logan Kirby, and Caleb Kirby will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Bethel Methodist Church, 9042 NC-127, Hickory, NC 28601, or Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd, Newton, NC 28658.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Judy Hughes for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion she so lovingly provided to their mother.

Ann’s life was a blessing to her family, her church, and her community. She will be remembered for her faith, her strength, her humor, her generous table, and the love she gave so freely. Her memory will remain a treasured part of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com