Reverend Dr. Roy Kilby

Reverend Dr. Roy Kilby, born on July 17, 1941, in Buncombe, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025. Throughout his life, he was a devoted servant, passionately sharing the Gospel and preaching the word of God as the Pastor of Bethel Baptist Church for 45 plus years. His commitment to Christ, his congregation and his community touched the lives of many.

Roy's legacy is carried on by his three sons, Lee Kilby and his wife Anne, Pat Kilby and his wife Angela, and Ryan Kilby and his wife Jessica. He also leaves behind his brother, Garry Kilby, as well as his grandchildren: Cameron Kilby and his wife Jessica, Danielle Thomas and her husband Reno, Myles Kilby, Cory Kilby and his wife Kiana, Olivia Kilby, Britton Kilby, Paxton Kilby and his wife Sadie, Spencer Kilby and his wife Rachel, and Chandler Kilby and his wife Caroline. His great-grandchildren, Karson, Kaiden, Cole, Vivienne, Jamison, Kobe, Roan, and Wade, will also remember him fondly.

Roy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wanda Kilby, who he cherished throughout their life together, and his brother, Randy and sister Anne Sprinkle.

The community and his family will gather to celebrate his life during visitation services at Wells Funeral Home in Canton, North Carolina, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Reverend Dr. Roy Kilby's burial will be privately held by the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Anapauo Ministry at P.O. Box 1036, Princeton, NC 27569.

The care of Reverend Dr. Roy Kilby has been entrusted by family to Wells Funeral Home of Canton.