Gail Childers Killian

Gail Childers Killian, 75, of Connelly Springs, passed away peacefully on Monday August 24, 2026 at UNC Health Blue Ridge in Morganton following a period of declining health.

Gail was born on September 22, 1950 in Catawba County to the late Lloyd Childers and Elsie Evans Childers. Gail dedicated many years to Burke County Public Schools, serving as office administrator at George Hildebran Elementary School, Rutherford College Elementary, Ray Childers Elementary, and East Burke Middle School. Beyond her commitment to the schools, Gail was also known for her warm hospitality as a hostess at Tex’s Fish Camp for many years, where she shared her welcoming spirit. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Harvey Lynn Killian.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Derrick Killian and wife Julie Zimmerman of Charlotte and Monte Killian of Connelly Springs; her brother, Gary Childers and wife Emily of Boone; her nieces and nephews, Carrie Childers and Matt Childers and wife Kaleen; and her great-nieces and nephews, Kai Godwin, Dean Childers and Caroline Childers.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday August 26, 2026, from 3:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. at Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese.

A Celebration of Gail’s life will follow at 4:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service, with Pastor Tamika Garrison officiating. Interment will follow at Shady Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Carolina Caring, 3175 Robinson Rd. Newton, NC 28658.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is serving the Killian family.