Dubuque, Iowa — The Dubuque community is mourning the unexpected death of Andrea Kirby, a longtime educator and faith leader whose work left a lasting impact on Catholic education and parish life throughout the area. She was 45.
Kirby dedicated her career to teaching, mentoring, and strengthening faith-based education in Iowa. She began working with the Dubuque Community School District as a substitute teacher in 2010 before joining Holy Family Catholic Schools, where she served in a variety of roles for more than a decade.
During her tenure, Kirby taught theology at Marquette Catholic High School and later served as a teacher at Mazzuchelli Middle School. In 2024, she was appointed Director of Catholic Mission at Holy Family Catholic Schools, a position she held until her death. Colleagues and students remember her for her commitment to faith formation, thoughtful leadership, and her ability to connect meaningfully with students.
Beyond her work in schools, Kirby was deeply involved in parish ministry. She served as Director of Faith Formation at Holy Spirit Parish for more than ten years, where she was known for her nurturing guidance, dedication to spiritual growth, and strong support of families within the parish community.
Kirby was a graduate of Wahlert and Hempstead High Schools and continued her education at Loras College and the University of Northern Iowa. Prior to transitioning into education, she worked at Prudential Retirement from 2002 to 2010.
She is survived by her husband, Travis Kirby, whom she married on August 5, 2000, along with numerous students, parishioners, colleagues, and friends who were impacted by her work and ministry.
Andrea Kirby is remembered for her unwavering devotion to education, her deep faith, and her compassionate service to others. Her legacy continues through the many lives she shaped in classrooms, parishes, and the broader Dubuque community.
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