Terri Kirchen, 85, of Elon, N.C., died on July 20, 2026 from complications of vascular dementia while in hospice care surrounded by family. She was born on January 7, 1941, in New York City to Pieter and Helen Smit, both of whom preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband of nearly 64 years, Robert Kirchen; sons Evan (Bess) and Roger (Kristin); and grandchildren Ava, Alexandra, Oliver, Lilah, and Isaac. A third son, Andrew, preceded her in death.
Terri graduated from Columbia University in New York City with a degree in Zoology. After her marriage to Robert, they spent a year in Rhode Island before relocating to North Carolina where she earned a master’s degree in library science from UNC Chapel Hill. She was hired by Elon (College) University in 1988 as the Director of Academic Computing, a newly established position in the library, and retired in 2005 as the Non-Print Librarian and Assistant Professor holding the title of Emerita Member of Elon Faculty.
Terri was an active member of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter in Burlington, N.C. where she sang in the choir for over 50 years and enthusiastically supported the church’s community good works. Her great smile and joyous spirit made everyone feel seen and appreciated.
After retirement, Terri traveled as much as she could with family and friends. Her many experiences and photos from those travels fed her new creative passion of painting bright, colorful artworks. Her artistic skills advanced rapidly with encouragement from friends and guidance of local professional artists. Many of her paintings hang in friends’ homes today.
Terri believed one should enjoy life, make art, and be kind to others.
Friends are invited to celebrate Terri’s life at a Memorial Service to be held at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter, Burlington, N.C. at 3 pm on September 19, 2026 with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Holy Comforter Endowment Fund, 320 East Davis Street, Burlington, N.C. 27215, or to a charity of your choice.
