Rebecca Kay Killian

1954 - 2024

Rebecca Kay Killian

December 10, 1954 - April 9, 2024

Lowesville, North Carolina - REBECCA "KAY" KILLIAN passed away on April 9, 2024, surrounded by the serenity of her family farm in Lowesville, NC, where she spent her days exploring the beauty of Killian Forest alongside her beloved horses. Born on December 10, 1954, in Lincoln County to Claude Alonzo Killian and Margaret Rebecca Bynum Killian, she left behind many wonderful cousins from the Bynum and Killian Families.

Kay's roots ran deep in the fertile soil of both Gaston and Lincoln County. From her earliest days, she exhibited a remarkable intellect and a love for learning and reading fostered by her mother, Margaret. As an only child, she assumed roles on the family farm helping cultivate the land and caring for the animals alongside her father.

Kay's journey at Wake Forest University began in 1973, and from her very first day, she was drawn to the path of law. Graduating with distinction in 1977, she continued her academic pursuits at the Wake Forest School of Law, earning her degree in 1980. Her time at Wake Forest was marked by lifelong friendships, whimsical illustrations in the Howler yearbook, and the warmth of her mother's legendary spiced tea.

After graduating, Kay embarked on a successful legal career, spending 16 years in private practice before assuming the role of Assistant District Attorney in Lincoln County in 1996. Her commitment to justice and her community was unwavering, earning her the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers.

Kay's dedication to her community extended beyond her legal career. Her tireless efforts to conserve her family's farm culminated in a partnership with the Catawba Conservancy Program, ensuring the preservation of more than 562 acres of cherished land for future generations.

A true lover of nature and animals, Kay's passion for horses and the outdoors was evident in every aspect of her life. She spent countless hours training and riding at Partnership Dressage in Mooresville, NC. Kay found solace and joy in the company of her equine friends.

Kay's love for literature and writing was evident in her membership in the Mentor Book Club, where she found companionship and intellectual stimulation. She was an avid reader and writer and frequently shared her books with others to enjoy.

Her communal spirit led her to Fausto's Coffee, Lawyers Luncheons with colleagues, and even the Loch Ness Games, where she embraced every opportunity to connect with others and explore the world around her.

Kay will be remembered for her zest for life, caring nature, and genuine smile that touched the hearts of all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Martha's Chapel, Wake Forest University for scholarships, Davidson College for conservancy programs, or the NC State Veterinary School- Equine Division, institutions that held special significance in Kay's life. Though she may be gone, her spirit will live on in the land she loved and the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to call her a friend.

A Memorial Service will be held at Martha's Chapel on Friday, April 19, 2024 at 2:00 PM. Martha's Chapel is located on Killian Farm Road, Stanley, NC. As we often saw Kay in her "barn clothes," please feel free to dress in casual attire. There will be a memorial walk to honor Kay within the upcoming month. Details will be announced at a later date.