05/07/2026
Susan “Sue” Marie Kirby (Traina), 71, of Billings, Montana, passed away on May 4, 2026. Born on January 5, 1955, in Queens, New York, Sue carried her East Coast roots with her wherever she went, bringing her bold spirit, unmistakable humor, and deep compassion to everyone lucky enough to know her.
Sue dedicated her life to caring for others as a nurse, a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. Over the years, she not only cared for her patients but became a source of comfort, strength, and a steady presence to countless families. As a traveling nurse, Sue’s career brought her to Billings, a place that would ultimately become home. She later continued that care through her work as a Parish Nurse at St. Patrick’s.
Above all else, Sue was a devoted mother and grandmother. Nothing brought her more joy than being surrounded by her children and grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. She treasured the years spent living with and helping raise her grandchildren, William and Jeanne. If you were looking for Sue, there was a good chance you could find her at a Mustangs game or at Old Chicago with her kids and grandkids, making memories with the people she loved most.
Sue is survived by her children, Steven Kirby, Timothy Kirby (Jancie), Christopher Kirby, and Kaitlyn Kirby; and her beloved grandchildren, William Johnson and Jeanne Hellyer. She is also survived by her siblings, Thomas Traina and Carol Berberick (Joe); her nieces and nephews, Matt Ferretti, Susan Berberick, Joey Berberick, Alexandra Kirby, and Savannah Kirby; as well as many relatives and close friends who were like family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Jeanne Traina, and her son-in-law, Jake Hellyer.
Sue shared many years of marriage and family life with Doug Kirby.
Known to many as “Mama Kirby,” Sue had a way of making everyone feel like family. Her door was always open, her advice was always honest, and her willingness to help others was unmatched. She had a bold, tell-it-like-it-is personality, balanced by a deep kindness and generosity that made her a second mom to so many.
She loved her New York Mets, her animals, and all things East Coast. She looked forward to her annual trips back to New Jersey, where she could reconnect with family, revisit her roots, and enjoy the places and people she loved most. Her strong New York accent was unmistakable, a part of what made Sue, Sue, and something her family will always hear when they think of her.
A memorial mass will be held at 12:00 pm, on May 15, 2026 at St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral in Billings, Montana followed by burial at St. Pius X Parish Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held following the burial at the Columbia Club
Sue’s legacy lives on in the memories, laughter, and love she shared with so many throughout her life.
