Send Flowers

Life story

"Michael David Killian, age 73, died in Spotsylvania County on May 22, 2024, after a courageous battle with brain cancer; family and friends were by his side.
Michael “Mike” was born on February 20, 1951 in Lincolnton, North Carolina to William David and Helen (Houser) Killian. He graduated from West Lincoln High School in 1969 and attended UNC-Chapel Hill. After serving in the U.S. Army (1972-1974) he returned to college to finish his degree at NC State University (Horticultural Science). After working for the North Carolina Agricultural Extension Service he obtained a Master’s degree in Entomology from NC State University. On May 23, 1981, Mike married Joella Marie Chambers. Mike and Joella enjoyed their life together, traveling and exploring the natural world. Mike taught biology and chemistry at Courtland High School in Spotsylvania County and finished his teaching career at the University of Mary Washington as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences. Mike was a plant person at heart, but he loved to go fishing and play in any river, stream, swamp, or marsh. He liked to believe that musical theater was the highest art form and regularly attended productions at UMW and the Riverside Dinner Theater. Mike was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg and Fredericksburg Secular Humanists.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Joella; brothers Jeff (Barbara) and Steve (Ann); sister Susan (John) Sutton; nephew Matt Bowman Killian; and nieces Kathryn Elizabeth Sutton and Amy Lynne Sutton.
A Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Saturday, June 22nd, at the Unitarian Fellowship of Fredericksburg, 25 Chalice Circle, Fredericksburg. Contributions in memory of Mike Killian may be made to the Killian Theatre Scholarship (giving.umw.edu or UMW Advancement Services at (540) 654-1024), or the charity of your choice"