With profound sadness, the Kirby and Miller families, along with friends and members of the Hidalgo, Illinois, community, are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Lily Tru Kirby Miller, age 22, who passed away on July 5, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital. Her unexpected passing has left a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, as they remember a young woman whose compassion, warmth, and love touched countless lives.
Lily Tru Kirby Miller was born on July 4, 2004, in Mattoon, Illinois, to Jason Kirby and Amanda (Rohr) Thompson. She later married the love of her life, Shayden Miller, on February 4, 2023. To her family and friends, Lily was far more than a daughter, wife, sister, and friend—she was a source of light, joy, and unconditional love.
Those who knew Lily often said that to know her was to love her. She was admired for her gentle heart, caring spirit, and the sincere kindness she showed to everyone she met. Her compassion was evident not only in her words but in her daily actions, as she consistently went out of her way to make others feel valued and supported.
Lily devoted much of her life to caring for others. Through her work at a nursing home, she brought comfort and companionship to residents, ensuring they felt seen, respected, and loved. Her kindness extended to animals as well, as she was actively involved with Saved by Grace Animal Rescue, helping provide safe and loving homes for stray animals. Her dedication to helping others reflected the generous and loving heart that defined her life.
Family and friends will forever cherish Lily’s bright personality, radiant smile, and the happiness she brought into every moment. She had a special love for the color yellow, a symbol of the warmth and brightness she carried within her. She walked down the aisle to the song “Yellow” by Coldplay, creating a memory that remains deeply meaningful to those who shared in that special moment.
To her husband Shayden, Lily was lovingly known as “Honey-Hun,” a name that reflected the deep bond and affection they shared. Their relationship stood as a beautiful example of love, devotion, and companionship.
Lily is survived by her devoted husband, Shayden Miller; her parents, Amanda (Morris) Thompson and Jason (Lynn) Kirby; Amber Jensen and Arnold Miller; siblings Bryar Hardesty, Jessica Kirby, Devin (PJ) Kirby, Michael Gibbs, Jamie Kirby, Emily (Terry) Threlkeld, and Colton (Celina) Smith; sister-in-law Samantha (Bryson) Cameron; along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will continue to carry her memory in their hearts.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Jay Gibbs; grandparents James Kirby Sr., Judy Rohr, and Flora Anne Kirby; uncle Adam Kirby; and grandmother-in-law Deanna Phelps.
Funeral services to honor Lily’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Schilling Funeral Home, with Pastor Ron Dickinson officiating. Burial will follow at Humboldt Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
As the Kirby and Miller families navigate this unimaginable loss, the community continues to surround them with prayers, love, and support. Lily’s life, though far too short, was filled with purpose, kindness, and love that will continue to shine through everyone she touched.
Lily Tru Kirby Miller will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished. Her legacy of love lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her. #LoveLikeLily
May she rest in eternal peace.
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