A Legacy Begins: From the Kirbys’ Vision to Today’s Care

In 1941, a dream took root in the heart of Piatt County — a dream of accessible, compassionate healthcare for everyone, regardless of circumstance. That dream belonged to John and Mary E. Kirby.

The Kirbys, deeply devoted to their community, believed that quality healthcare should never be a privilege. With a generous bequest, they established the John and Mary E. Kirby Hospital, laying the foundation for what we now proudly call Kirby Medical Center.

From its earliest days, Kirby Hospital became a symbol of hope and healing for local families. The dedicated staff worked tirelessly to ensure that patients received care close to home — often delivered by neighbors, friends, and familiar faces.

Now, 85 years later, Kirby Medical Center stands as a beacon of progress. What began as a small, 15-bed hospital has grown into a full-service medical campus offering advanced technology, innovative programs, and an unwavering commitment to patient well-being.

As we celebrate our 85th anniversary, we honor the visionaries who built this legacy and the generations who have sustained it. Their spirit lives on in every nurse’s smile, every doctor’s compassion, and every life touched by Kirby care.

Join us throughout 2026 as we celebrate 85 years of caring for our community.

#Kirby85Years #CommunityCare #OurHistoryYourHealth

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