Lena Carter Kilgo, 79, of Stony Point, N.C., passed away on January 5, 2026. She was born on October 4, 1946, in Sullivan County, Tenn., and was the daughter of the late Charlie Hampton and Margie Ollive Owens Carter. She was the wife of the late Robert Kilgo Jr. She was a 1964 graduate of Cocoa High School.

Lena was a lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She was an avid Florida Gators fan and especially loved Dunkin’ Donuts French Vanilla coffee and her flip flops. She worked as a secretary and administrative assistant. Lena was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church and was actively involved in church life, including singing in the choir and other ministries. She was previously a member of Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Naples, Fla. She enjoyed shopping, yard sales, and the beach. Lena was known for her caring, loving, and sweet nature and for being involved and supportive of her family.

Lena is survived by one son, Robert “Rob” (Jasmine) Kilgo III; one daughter, Rev. Denise (Blair Downs) Kilgo; two granddaughters, Kyla Kilgo and Aislinn Martin; one grandson, Zeke Martin; and three step grandchildren, Julien Martinez, Joshua Kidd, and Jocelyn Kidd. She is also survived by two brothers, Jim Carter and Dave (Nancy) Carter.

Graveside funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Laurens, S.C., with Rev. Morgan Byars officiating. The family will speak with friends following the service. Pallbearers will be Dave Carter, Chris Carter, Matt Carter, Webb Howard and Jim Carter.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Iredell Adult Day Services, 502 Brevard Street, Statesville, NC 28677, or Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County, 2341 Simonton Road, Statesville NC 28625.

Troutman Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.