Raymond Augustus Kilner

Raymond Augustus Kilner, age 99 of Chapel Hill, NC, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2026, one year to the day after his beloved wife’s passing.

Raymond was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Shirley Marie Robinson Kilner, his parents, Edwin and Bernice (Parke) Kilner, his father and mother in-law, Claude and Louise Robinson and his brother, Edwin Kilner, Jr.

Survivors include three devoted daughters, Kathy Fussell (Steve), Lynn McClurg (Greg) and Susan Wilkat (Tom); 5 grandchildren - Kristin Cole (Steven), Tommy Wilkat (Maria), Ashley Wilkat, Rylie McClurg and Carah McClurg; and one great grandchild – Khloe Cole.

Raymond was born in Waterbury, Connecticut and raised in Thomaston, Connecticut. He joined the US Navy at the age of 17 to serve in WWII. He served as an Aerial Photographer and was stationed in Falmouth, ENG, Paris, FR and aboard the USS Valley Forge. Following his service, he attended the California Art Institute in San Diego, CA. His creative career involved photography, lithography and printing.  Raymond was proud of his wife and family over all things, but also enjoyed photography, golf, square-dancing and croquet. Over the span of their lives together, Raymond and Shirley enjoyed living in Harwinton and Thomaston, CT; Coconut Creek and Vero Beach, FL; and Linville Land Harbor and Chapel Hill, NC. Raymond was a social and easy-going man, was a friend to many and was loved beyond measure by his family.

Donaldson Funeral Home & Cermatory is honored to serve the Kilner family.