Kathy Jane Eller

Kathy Jane Eller, 73, of Hickory, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, September 28, 2026. Born on May 25, 1953, she was the daughter of the late Ray Eller and Geneva Dair Eller.

Kathy was one of the most loving, kind, generous, and unconditionally accepting people you could ever meet. She never met a stranger. She had a way of making people feel welcome, cared for, and important, no matter who they were.

Kathy was happiest in the simple moments. She loved sitting by the pool with her coffee and watching the wildlife around her. She had a special love for animals and found joy in watching and caring for them. But more than anything, Kathy loved her family. Being surrounded by the people she loved was where she was happiest.

She was strong, nurturing, independent, selfless, and devoted. She gave generously of herself and never hesitated to help someone she loved. Her kindness was not something she simply spoke about—it was the way she lived.

Kathy worked at Hickory Motor Rewinding in sales and customer service, where she was working with and helping others.

Kathy’s daughter, Shelly Truitt, was her pride and joy. She was a devoted and unconditionally loving mother who would do anything to make sure Shelly was happy and never had to worry about anything. Her love for her daughter was unwavering and unconditional.

Kathy’s lifelong friendship with Evelyn Willis was especially precious. Their friendship spanned an incredible 65 years, a testament to the love, loyalty, and memories they shared throughout their lives. Kathy also held a special place in her heart for Evelyn’s husband, Dale Willis, and her godson, Cory Willis, who were important parts of her extended family.

Kathy is survived by her daughter, Shelly Truitt, and son-in-law, Jeff Truitt; her son, Darren Dickinson, and his wife, Melanie Dickinson; her grandchildren, Spencer Dickinson, Josh and Jacob Truitt; and her great-grandchildren, Marley and Cuyler.

She is also survived by her beloved nieces, Beth Phillips and her husband, Jeremy; Sherry Parkhurst; and Louann Stamey, and her nephew, Gary Kiser and wife Tina as well as many other family members and dear friends who were blessed to know and love her.

Kathy was preceded in death by her father, Ray Eller; her mother, Geneva Dair Eller; her sisters, Becky Kiser and Alice Parlier; and her brothers, Gene Eller and Roy Eller.

She will forever be loved.She will forever be missed.

A Celebration of Life and Receiving of Friends will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home in Newton, North Carolina.