Stephen Wayne Killian

Stephen Wayne “Steve” Killian, 74 of Hickory, passed away unexpectedly, Saturday, April 25, 2026, at his residence.

Born on October 3, 1951, he was the son of the late Worth and Mae Setzer Killian and spent most of his life rooted in Catawba County.

He was a graduate of St Stephens High School, class of 1969 and graduated from CVCC in 1971 with a degree in data processing. Soon after graduation he entered the United States Air Force and served his country from 1971-1975, while being stationed in Arizona. During this time, he married his high school sweetheart Deborah “Debbie” Adcox Killian. After discharge, and returning home to Catawba County, Steve and Debbie started their family. Together they loved to travel and visited all 50 states throughout their lifetime together. They recently shared their 54th wedding anniversary on April 8th.

Steve was the proud father and outstanding role model to sons Bryan Killian and wife Crystal of Franklin, NC, and Tyler Killian and wife Kristen of Hickory. Steve’s role as “Gramps” brought him overwhelming joy and he loved spending time with his four grandchildren which included granddaughter Georgia Killian ( who some would argue she’s his favorite) of Hickory, and grandsons Landen Killian of Hickory, Koen Killian of Hickory and Brayden Killian of Franklin, NC. Steve/Gramps was his grandchildren’s biggest cheerleader and rarely missed a special event happening in his grandchildren’s lives. He taught them many life skills, some which included driving a tractor, backing a trailer, and fixing fences to name only a few. During the summer they didn't have to twist his arm to make a pizza run for lunch on a Friday afternoon. Gramp's will forever be a role model to his children and grandchildren for the life that he lived.

Also left to cherish his memory are his brother David Killian and wife Debbie of Hickory, numerous cousins, sister-in laws and brother in-laws, as well as nieces and nephews, and we can't forget his farm dog and companion Molly. Family was very important to Steve.

After 30 years of employment, Steve retired from Catawba County School Systems where he worked for maintenance specializing in refrigeration and HVAC.

Steve was a farmer and active resident of Catawba County. He served on the board of directors for Catawba County Farm Bureau; Catawba County Agricultural Advisory Board; Catawba County Soil and Water Conservation and was Board Chairman since 2022; and was a former president and current member of the Catawba Valley Cattlemen's Association.

Steve was a Godly man, and served as an elder of his church, Hickory Church of Christ for many years.

Steve will be remembered for his love and dedication to his family, his warm and welcoming personality, and genuine spirit.

The family will receive friends Friday May 1, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Hickory Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held Saturday May 2, 2026, at 11:00 am at Hickory Church of Christ with Dr. Rick Janelle and friend Tom Keaver.

Burial will follow at Catawba Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to Catawba County Farm Bureau’s Scholarship Fund or to Hickory Church of Christ, 1218 Fairgrove Church Road SE, Hickory NC 28602.