Denise E Rathel

In Loving Memory of Denise Evelyn Killebrew Rathel (1954–2025)

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Denise Evelyn Killebrew Rathel, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 7, 2025,at the age of 71. Denise’s life was a radiant testament to her unwavering faith in God, her boundless love for her family, and her deep commitment to the values she held dear.

Born on February 15, 1954, in Colquitt, Georgia, Denise was the third child of Duane and Donald Killebrew. Raised in a home grounded in Christian faith, she developed a deep relationship with God that would guide her throughout her life. Denise often said that one of her greatest joys was knowing she would one day see the face of her Savior, and those who knew her saw His light reflected in her every smile, word, and deed.

The love story of Randy and Denise began in 2016 and was one for the ages—built on faith, family, and a shared love for both travel and military history. Together, they traveled the country exploring countless museums, lighthouses, and beaches. Denise’s devotion to her family was limitless; she poured her heart into nurturing her children with love, wisdom, and encouragement. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, laughter, and prayer, where every child, grandchild, and visitor felt the embrace of her boundless love.

As a mother, grandmother, and recently a great grandmother, Denise delighted in spoiling her family with what she referred to as her “Blessings”. Her children and grandchildren will forever carry the memory of her tender hugs and the way her eyes sparkled when she spoke of her love for them and for God.

When Denise’s passion for history and the military met with Randy’s love for military heritage, she was led to become an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC). She cherished the opportunity to honor the sacrifices of her ancestors and to preserve the legacy of faith and freedom they fought for. As a proud member of the Dothan Chapter, she spent countless hours researching genealogy, organizing patriotic events, and sharing her gentle wisdom and enthusiasm with the world. Her dedication to the DAR and UDC was a reflection of her deep love for her country and her belief that history should inspire future generations to live with courage and conviction.

Denise’s life was marked by service—to her church, her community, and her family. She taught the Shepherds Bible Study Group for over 10 years, was active in the Emmaus Group, and was always the first to offer a kind word to anyone in need.

She leaves behind her devoted husband, Randy; her siblings, Andy (Elizabeth) Killebrew, Donna (John) Ross, Rita (Mike) Lovett, John (Lynette) Killebrew; her children, Angela Powell, Natalie (Brandon) Willis, Casey (Brett) Hopkins, Christie (Jason) Williamson; her grandchildren, Gage, Abby, Lexi, Allie, Autumn, Kenzie, Garrison, Braxton, Brady, and Blake; her great-grandchild, Stetson Easley; and countless friends and loved ones who were touched by her grace. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Though we grieve the loss of her earthly presence, we rejoice knowing that Denise is now in the arms of her Savior, singing with the other angels. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in all who knew her, and we take comfort in the promise of a joyful reunion in Heaven one day.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23

The family will receive friends at the Ward Wilson Funeral Home Chapel from 5 - 7 PM on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Friday, March 14, 2025 at the Harvest Church  Chapel with Pastor Larry Anderson officiating,  burial will follow at the Crossroads Cemetery in Damascus, Georgia. 2 PM central, 3 PM Eastern time.

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