Mamye June Sullivan Kilby, 91, of Indianola, passed away peacefully Saturday, August 23, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born December 23, 1933, in Franklin, Tenn., to Melvin O. and Ethel Mae Fox Sullivan.
June grew up in Franklin and graduated from Franklin High School.
On July 12, 1953, she married the love of her life, Joe Randolph Kilby, who was serving in the United States Air Force at the time. Upon Joe’s discharge from the Air Force, they moved to the Mississippi Delta, first to Greenville and then to Indianola, where they worked together in the family business – Kilby’s Chevron.
After Joe’s death, June began her career with Planters Bank & Trust Company, which lasted for more than 20 years. Her final and favorite position at the bank was serving as Head Teller/Branch Manager for the Indianola downtown location.
June enjoyed working in her yard, antiquing, going out to eat, and watching football. The Mississippi State University Bulldogs and the Dallas Cowboys were two of her favorite teams.
June was a loving mother and grandmother. Whether she was answering as Moma or Nanny, she did it with a heart full of pride and joy. Her family was her world.
June was a member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Indianola. In earlier years, she served on the Altar Guild, where she proudly served as a dedicated brass polisher.
June was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother, Melvin Lionel Sullivan.
She is survived by her daughters, Debbie Kilby Allen (Jack) of Indianola, and Pam Kilby of Starkville; and two grandchildren, Dr. Kilby Allen of Chattanooga, Tenn., and John Allen (Dr. Amanda Perkins) of Seattle, Wash.
June will be missed by many, but she will always be remembered for her sweet, friendly personality and bright, beautiful smile.
Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. Thursday, August 28, at Indianola City Cemetery. The Celebration of Life service followed at 2 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church with the Rev. Jennifer Deaton officiating. A reception followed in the Parish Hall. Honorary pallbearers were Steven Sullivan and Timothy Sullivan of Bella Vista, Ark. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola was entrusted with arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 1004, Indianola, MS 38751, or Wilson Research Foundation, 1350 E. Woodrow Wilson Drive, Jackson, MS 39216.
