Idalia (Rymer) Chinnery Kirby

Idalia Rymer Chinnery Kirby was born on February 5, 1930, in the British Virgin Islands. She transitioned to eternity with her Lord on March 18, 2020, in Richardson, Texas. 

At a young age, Idalia embraced and modeled a strong work ethic. Mostly a short-order cook throughout her career, she worked at the Caneel Bay Resort in St. John, United States Virgin Islands. After more than 30 years of service, Idalia retired. 

During her relocation to St. John, she struggled as a single mom after two divorces rocked her world. As a Proverbs 31 woman, she invoked her skills, wisdom, and strength through the years to bring stability and fulfillment to her family. She invested in real estate, built a house with rental apartments, bought a car, and worked from sunup to sundown. Her strong character, and compassionate and loving heart was embodied and reciprocated by everyone she met. She was the 'village mom', and her house was the village kids' hang out. She brought that same wisdom and character to Dallas and continued to instill those desires in her children and grandchildren.

Being on a tight budget, she used her sewing ability to make school uniforms for her children (the only children who wore uniforms to school). The idea was so cost effective and convenient that the school adopted the uniform policy for the entire school. 

Affectionately regarded as "Ms. Dallie", Idalia was a member of North Dallas Community Bible Fellowship where she was a part of the Communion Ministry. She enjoyed many hobbies, including sewing, cooking, and spending time with family. She truly enjoyed visiting and cooking for her 'island girlfriends', "Muddy" and Ms. Woodley, both of whom preceded her in death. Her loving, caring, nurturing, kind, courageous, sharing, and driven spirit will continue to be admired by those who knew and loved her. 

Idalia was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Rymer and Roselphine Mactavious Rymer; 11 siblings; son-in-law, Casey Cannon; and great-grandchild, Kaci. Those left to cherish precious memories include her daughter, Jackie Henley (Louis); son, Terrence "Terry" Chinnery; daughter, Beverly Brathwaite (David); daughter, Michele Cannon; son, T.J. Kirby; grandchildren: Melissa (Greg), Jenna (Michael II), Denae' (Jon), Darrell (Magan), David (Savannah), Kimberly (Cameron), Xavier (Tiffany), Jordan, Justin, Triauna, Taylor, Tatyana, Tayten, and Tiye; 13 great-grandchildren; special son, Pastor Eldred McClean (Lauren); special niece, Muriel Callwood; and a host of other relatives and friends. 

Her children rise up and call her blessed. She made sure we knew the love of God. Coupled with the fear of God, her qualities brought us enjoyment, honor, and worth. She always wanted us around her even if she was not bodily in the same room; she could hear us and was very accessible. She was still teaching us that even though we can't see Jesus, He is always there...even closer than she was in the other room. Thanks, Mom. Much love. See you later.

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