Kelli Hibbard taught social studies at West Rocks Middle School. She died on Jan 12, and her school community says she will be missed greatly.
Contributed by Norwalk Public SchoolsNORWALK — Each Christmas, Kelli Hibbard bought all of the remaining presents in her school's holiday event for kids who could not afford them at West Rocks Middle School
"She was generous," recalled Adam Reynolds, principal at West Rocks. "She did things without any need or want for recognition."
Hibbard, who taught at West Rocks for almost 30 years, died at 53 on Jan. 12, according to her obituary. Currently a social studies teacher, she also held different roles throughout her tenure. Starting as a student teacher, she has taught sixth, seventh, and eighth grades and taught both social studies and English language arts during her career.
Originally from Yonkers, NY, Hibbard had a love for learning from childhood. “She was a serious child who did well in her studies,” according to her obituary, so she earned two bachelor's degrees and a master’s degree. “Always passionate about learning, she made sure her students had what they needed to succeed.”
"One of the ways she connected with kids was through animals," Reynolds said. "She loved animals. She loved dogs."
Hibbard rode horses, enjoyed the opera, and loved her family dearly. “Although her first loves may have been her many pets throughout the years,” her obituary states. She adopted a Belgian Malinois named Dixie three years ago.
Anita Chauvin, a fellow social studies teacher at West Rocks, said Hibbard enjoyed nature.
“She was a ‘Doctor Dolittle’ feeding the wildlife at her home,” Chauvin said in a message to the school community. “She was always willing to help anyone that needed help. She will be missed by many.”
“Kelli was one of the most thoughtful, intelligent, and insightful people that I have known,” she said.
Reynolds said Hibbard had been sick recently. West Rocks held a moment of silence on Tuesday morning in honor of the teacher, and Reynolds said she will also have a page in the yearbook. Students and families can bring letters and photos for a memory box that will be given to the family, and the school plans to choose a permanent memorial on the grounds, such as a bench.
Visitation was held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, with the funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Both were at the Green Funeral Home in Danbury. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the New Fairfield/Sherman Animal Welfare Society, according to the obit.
Contact Faith Marnecheck at faith.marnecheck@hearstmediact.com