Stephanie Killilea

Stephanie Ann Killilea, 67, of Gig Harbor, WA, died in Tacoma on February 24, 2026.

Born in Cleveland, OH in August 1958, Stephanie grew up in a warm and loving family, the daughter of John and Florence McTaggart. She came of age in southern California and went on to earn multiple degrees from universities in the Southwest, a reflection of her lifelong curiosity and drive.

She was married in May 1986 to Terrance Killilea at St. Monica Catholic Church in San Francisco.

Stephanie built a distinguished career that spanned banking, paralegal work, and executive leadership, most recently serving as Vice President of a successful health consulting company. She brought the same dedication to civic life, serving on the Gig Harbor Arts Commission, where she championed the arts and helped shape the cultural life of the community she called home.

But above all else, Stephanie was a devoted mother. Her children were her greatest pride, and her commitment to their well-being and to the broader community (countless volunteer hours and fundraising) around them defined how she moved through the world. Those who knew her found in her a steadfast friend, a generous spirit, and an unforgettable presence.

Stephanie is preceded in death by her father, John McTaggart; her mother, Florence McTaggart; and her brother, Michael McTaggart. She will be greatly missed by her loving husband of 39 years, Terrance, and her two children, Sean and Erin, as well as her sister, Jean McTaggart, and brother, Clarke McTaggart. Their lives were enriched beyond measure by her love.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 13, at 1:30 p.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tacoma.

May her memory continue to nourish all whose lives she touched.