It is with deep sadness that we announce that Thomas Edward Killebrew, “Ed” to all who knew him, answered his last earthly call on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, and entered his eternal rest.
Ed, 86, of Roanoke Rapids, was born in Halifax County on December 20, 1939, to the late John and Annie Sue Killebrew.
He was known throughout our community as a man with a servant’s heart, offering to help folks or taking people anywhere they needed to go without expecting anything in return.
Ed’s mission in life was to help others and that was evident in many ways — from his 30+ years of service to our community as the owner of Killebrew’s Garage and Wrecker Service, to his 46 years serving the community as a Lifetime Member of the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad.
His servant’s heart was amplified even more when he gave his life to Christ in June of 2025.
Ed also had varied interests in life including NASCAR, especially Richard Petty and ole’ #3, Dale Earnhardt, Sr.; he was a very social person, loved driving his dune buggy or tow trucks, Big Brew and Lil’ Brew; wanted to take on any job and “get ‘er done;” loved his junk, and loved his community.
In addition to his parents, Ed is also preceded in death by his loving wife, Ollie Mae, who passed away in 2001; and sisters, Mary Alice Brewer and Barbara Hedspeth.
Ed leaves to cherish his memory, his and Ollie’s legacy of love, daughter, Tammy Killebrew; daughter, Donna K. Glass (Darrell); granddaughter, Leslie Dara Glass; brother, Joseph John Killebrew (Mary Lee); sister, Shirley Nelson; several nieces and nephews, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
The family will receive friends at 1:00 pm on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Wrenn Funeral Home, 1015 West 5th Street, Roanoke Rapids. Funeral Services will be held for Ed at 2:00 pm in the chapel with Pastor Gary Killebrew and former Rescue Squad Commander, Paul Nowell, officiating. Interment will follow at Old Cedarwood Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Wrenn Funeral Home and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.wrennfh.com