Roberta Jean Dirks

DANVERS – Roberta Jean (Cunningham) Dirks, 82, of Danvers, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Malden, to the late Robert and Ellen (Mahoney) Cunningham.

Robby had a passion for gardening. She spent many years as a member of the Danvers Garden Club and was later named an honorary member. She gave her time as a volunteer gardener, planting and designing flower beds at the hospice house, the library, and many other locations in Danvers.

When her children were young, she took them to nursing homes in the area to sing Christmas carols each year, something she valued very highly.

She was an excellent tennis player and played often. She also enjoyed playing bridge throughout her life.

The beach was another of her favorite places, especially Singing Beach, Long Beach and Good Harbor.

Robby also loved to travel. She visited places like Hong Kong, San Francisco, Hawaii, Jamaica, the Poconos, Florida, and New Hampshire. She especially loved summer days with her grandchildren -whale watching, exploring, new places, and making memories together. One of her favorite spots was Lake Winnipesaukee, where she created countless cherished memories with family and friends.

Robby’s greatest joy was her family. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-granddaughter. She will be remembered for baking gingerbread cookies, coloring, dyeing Easter eggs, making special holiday cards and planning summer day outings. Her love was unconditional, her advice was always thoughtful, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her three sons, Michael Oscar and his wife Erin Dirks of Stoneham, Jonathan and his wife Susan Dirks of Danvers, and Mark and his wife Julie Dirks of Brentwood, Tennessee; her three sisters Elizabeth “Betty” Duffil, Mary Ellen Blair and Marcia Cunningham-Abram; her 8 grandchildren Kayla, Connor, Abby, Caleigh, Chris, Mason, Porter, and Henry; her great granddaughter Avery Rose; her companion Gordon Thomson; and many nieces and nephews.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to attend Roberta’s funeral service at O’Donnell Cremations – funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., DANVERS on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 12:00 PM. Visiting hours prior to the services are from 10:00AM-12:00PM. Burial will be at Annunciation Cemetery, 155 Hobart St. in Danvers. Donations may be made in Roberta’s name to danafarber.jimmyfund.org/site/TR?fr_id=2620&pg=personal&px=1691238