Andrea Lee (Welsh) Kirby, 47, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on the morning of February 9, 2026, after a short but intense battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family as she found her peace.

Visitation for Andrea will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12th, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A private family wake service will be held prior to the visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 13th, 2026, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. Robert Gross officiating. Committal prayers will follow mass at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Andrea was born in Saint Paul, MN on March 18, 1978, to David and Deborah (Dolan) Welsh. She was raised in Dubuque, IA, where she attended Holy Ghost, Wahlert, and graduated from Hempstead in 1996. She received her bachelor’s degree in education at the University of Northern Iowa and obtained a master’s degree in theology at Loras College. Andrea was raised among the love of her parents and two brothers, along with her grandparents and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her faith always played a central role in her life.

On August 5, 2000, Andrea married her husband, Travis Joseph Kirby. For over 25 years, they had built a bond of love, friendship, respect, and parenthood. Her greatest desire in life was to have a family, and together with Travis, she accomplished this by having six children. She truly lived for her family and provided an example to many of what selfless motherhood looks like. Above all, Andrea loved her family fiercely and left a beautiful legacy behind.

Throughout her life, Andrea enjoyed many family camping trips and road trips. This past September, she also traveled to Italy with her husband to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, watching a good show or movie, going for walks, and having great conversations over a glass of wine. Andrea loved supporting her children in their various activities and had so much pride in their accomplishments.

Andrea dedicated her career to teaching others how to deepen their faith. She spent time as a substitute teacher, and she taught ESEA Title I, elementary education, and seventh grade. Additionally, she spent some time working for Holy Spirit Parish and also teaching in their Religious Education program. Recently, she took on the role of Director of Catholic Mission at Holy Family Catholic Schools. Andrea was extremely excited to take this on and have a leadership role in the school system’s faith mission, and to start up Catholic Discipleship groups among students.

Andrea is survived by her husband, Travis Kirby; their daughters, Ellen Asama (Andrew), Alyssa Kirby, and Claire Kirby; their sons, Drew Kirby, Will Kirby, and Alex Kirby; her parents, David and Deborah Welsh; her brothers, David Brendan Welsh (Megan) and Chad Welsh (Kaylyn); her father- and mother-in-law, Larry and Renee Kirby; her brothers-in-law, Lance Kirby (Tabitha) and Chad Kirby (Christina); her sister-in-law, Jody Kirby (Joe Noel); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents Oswald and Marjorie Dolan, and Jack and Myra Welsh.

In lieu of flowers an Andrea Kirby memorial fund will be established.

Travis wishes to express his sincere gratitude to both Holy Family and Medical Associates for the generosity and kindness they have extended to him and Andrea. Throughout Andrea’s illness, these employers provided unwavering support and compassion, making a meaningful difference during a challenging time.

The family also extends their appreciation to all the health care professionals who cared for Andrea during her illness, with special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for the compassionate attention and support they provided. Their dedication and kindness brought comfort and dignity to Andrea in her final days. A heartfelt thank you to Andrea’s family and friends for their unwavering love, support, and friendship. Their presence and their prayers surrounded Andrea with love, affection and comfort, offering solace and strength as she prepared to join the Lord.