Amelia Elizabeth Lathan Killian of Mt Holly, 98, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 2, 2021. Born on August 19, 1922 in Blackstock, SC, she was the daughter of the late William Walter Lathan and Irene McElduff Lathan. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 60 years, Charlie McCoy Killian and granddaughter Sadie Derr Martin.
Amelia graduated as Valedictorian of Blackstock High School. After high school, she came to the Charlotte area where she graduated from Plaza Beauty School. After her three children were born, she opened her own salon where she worked until she was in her late eighties.
Her love of the Lord was such a driving force for Amelia. Her worn out Bible was her rock and though she lived through many hard times in her own life, she poured those Bible truths into all who knew her. Family, friends and neighbors could count on her for solid advice and prayer. She was the first one to show up in any time of need and the last one to close her eyes in prayer for those she loved.
Amelia’s love for her family was top priority. Making sure they gathered together weekly for lunches, prayed together and put their needs aside for those in need. Her beautiful handmade baby clothes, quilts and even wedding dresses will be passed down for generations. She was noted at “Grass Cutting Granny” by WBTV. She took pride in her cooking, sewing, grass mowing and gardening. She was always sharing the fruits of her labors.
She was an active member of Castanea Community Church for seventy-nine years, attending Sunday service until the Covid pandemic began. She proudly served in almost every office within the church, teaching Sunday school for 30 years and acting as the treasurer for 13 years. If something needed to be done, she did it; she painted many areas of the church, made draperies, cleaned, mowed grass, and cooked for the congregation. She was also known throughout the community for her efforts in cooking for and planning the semi-annual Barnabas Luncheon for the area senior citizens. She remained Women of the Church treasurer until her death.
Survivors include 3 precious children Charlie McCoy Killian, Jr. of Charlotte, Rhonda Killian Martin and husband Mike of Mt. Holly, Melanie Killian Jones and husband Tony of Denver; 6 wonderful grandchildren McCoy Martin and wife Christy, Charlie McCoy Killian III, McKenzie Killian Young and husband Jim, Siri Jones, Hannah Martin, Madeline Jones Ferrell and husband John; and 7 adored great grandchildren Tucker Martin, Reese Martin, Kamdyn Young, Killian Young, Nash Young, Coley Ferrell and Taft Ferrell; close family friends, Susie Hess and Lynn Willoughby.
A celebration of life will be held at Castanea Community Church on Saturday, March 6 at 1 pm. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 11:30 to 1. Interment will be in the church cemetery immediately following the service. It is requested that guests wear masks. Jeff Painter Funeral Service is handling the arrangements. Condolences can made online to www.painterfuneral.com
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Castanea Community Church, 14815 Lucia Riverbend Highway, Stanley, NC 28164
Painter Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the Killian family.
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