Plan for the Future
Andrea Frances Kilby, “Kiki,” passed into eternal rest surrounded by her loving family July 19th 2023. Beloved daughter of Andrea Lynn Kilby and John William Kilby: treasured sister of Claudia (Dave) DeRosa, Karen-Jean & Alexandra (Ryan) Kilby: much loved aunt to Liam, Quintin, Zoe & Bodhi Kilby. She leaves behind many beloved cousins, uncles & friends.
Andrea Frances Kilby was born promptly on August 4, 1976, arriving just in time to share her birthday with her loving parents’ Andrea & John’s anniversary. This close connection continued throughout her life. She was her father’s soccer buddy, whether going on soccer trips or just watching games together. If there was a big game, you can assume Andrea would be sitting right next to her father watching it. Andrea and John went on many adventures together, most recently to the UK and Lisbon, Portugal. A lifelong dream of hers was to see the big waves of Nasir, which she did with her loving father beside her. Andrea’s adventures with her mother and namesake, Andrea were set closer to home. Andrea just enjoyed spending time with her mom, whether it be going to the beach together or just a stop by the grocery store, Andrea was never far from her mom. They baked cookies together in the winter & worked out together every week. Their closeness was unparalleled. Being one of four girls, made Andrea’s bond with her sister’s unique. She was never one to shy away from an honest opinion, or put you into place with her cunning sarcasm. Yet, she was the first one we would call for a favor or to lend us a hand. She was fiercely loyal and willing to do just about anything for her sisters.
Andrea was a graduate of Mount St. Dominic Academy in Caldwell, NJ. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State, graduating in 1996. She continued to support the Spartans to this day hoping they would finally win any big game. Andrea’s love of trying new things and learning led her to acting school in NYC. She never performed professionally, but those who know her, knew she was always a star. Her love of all things sweet led her to pastry school. She worked as a pastry chef for a short period, but continued to make the best chocolate chip cookies and apple pies for her family to enjoy. The best pies were always made after our annual sister fall apple picking trip. Andrea made physical fitness, a priority. Her next adventure was to train at Guerilla Fitness in Montclair. She also studied power lifting. She never shied away from a challenge and was the best person to have pushing you to work harder. She helped at Sweet Nothings Candy Store forever, making her a fixture in Summit and giving her niece & nephews a favorite place to visit her. She worked for CORE/SWIFT Insurance for the last decade, and was able to continue her love of new things outside of work.
One of her new adventures was inspired by her nephews, who she adored more than anything. Liam took up surfing during Covid & she followed suit. One of her greatest joys was to be out in the ocean with Liam and Quintin. She treated her nephews and niece as her own. Andrea was at every game or recital cheering them on. She was the most special Aunt and the greatest gift Liam, Quintin, Zoe & Bodhi will ever have.
Andrea was taken from us too soon due to malignancy of a gene sequence. She waged a 2 week battle fearlessly and with great spirits. Had God in his mercy not come calling on July 19th, Andrea would have made it her highest priority to have a piece of her God daughter, Zoe’s Birthday cake with her family. The beating heart of her parents’ lives, Andrea leaves behind a legacy of humor, loyalty, and boundless love.
Visiting hours at Bradley, Brough & Dangler Funeral Home, 299 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901 will be held on Monday, July 24th from 3 to 8pm. A funeral mass will be Celebrated at St. Philomenas in Livingston, NJ on Tuesday, July 25th at 10am. Repast following the service at Millburn Standard 42 Main St, Millburn, NJ
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in honor of Andrea’s life may be made to: Platelet Disorder Support Association – for People with ITP – Home (pdsa.org) & Overlook Hospital
