Thursday, October 19, 2017 7:57 am

Kimberly Cline Callahan, age 57, of Ellenboro, passed away Saturday, October 7, 2017.

Kim was born August 9, 1960 in Tokyo Japan where her parents were stationed while her father served as a medical officer in the United States Air Force. Kim grew up in Durham, NC and graduated from Jordan High School in Durham. She then went on to pursue her undergraduate degree in Biology from Wake Forest University and she received her Bachelor's in nursing from the University of NC at Chapel Hill. Kim served as a registered nurse for 34 years, 21 of those years spent at Hospice of Cleveland County, where she served as Director of Nursing at both Wendover and Testa hospice houses.

She was a true example of servant leadership with her staff. Kim was a dedicated member of the Hopewell-Hollis Ruritan Club, and was recognized as Ruritan of the year numerous times. She was also a beloved member of Liberty Baptist Church in Ellenboro. Kim was a faithful member of the choir, Sunday school teacher, and Awana leader. She also led the women's ministry for many years in bible study, retreats, and other special events.

She is preceded in death by her father, Dr. John William Cline. Survivors include her husband of 33 years, Tim Callahan, daughters Sarah and Whitney, mother Sally Cline of Graham, NC, brothers Steve Cline and wife Maggie, of Atlanta, GA, David Cline and wife Christy, of Albemarle, NC, Todd Cline and wife Kelly, of Burlington, NC, sister-in-law Tyra Jones and husband Bruce of Lake Wylie, SC, brother-in-law, Randy Callahan of California, mother-in-law Dorothy Jones and husband Myles, of Mooresboro, numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends who are like family.

Funeral services were held at Liberty Baptist Church in Ellenboro with Dr. Mack Tester, Reverend Owen Duncan and Dr. Ron Lynch officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Cleveland County, 953 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150 or Liberty Baptist Church Building fund, PO Box 1000, Ellenboro, NC 28040.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.