March 7 Obits

Kimberly (Kim) Coward Keough, 53, of Collierville, passed away peacefully at home on February 27, 2013 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.  Kim was known for her infectious smile, heartfelt laugh, generous spirit and volunteerism.  She was a woman of grace and determination.

Kim is predeceased by her parents James Milburn Coward, Jr. and Willie Mae Robertson Coward.  She is survived by her loving husband of 26 years Curt, and their wonderful daughter Kelsey.  She also leaves a sister Liz Collier of Starkville MS; a brother Jimmy (Shelia) of Starkville, MS; 7 nieces and 4 nephews.

Kim recently retired as Membership Director for the Collierville Chamber of Commerce where she nurtured thousands of relationships and grew membership.  She served as Diaconate and Worship Committee Chair at the Collierville Christian Church where her beautiful voice and musical talents made her an integral part of the Chancel Choir and Bell Choir. Kim had a servant’s heart and was a driving force behind many philanthropic efforts in Collierville-TWIGS of Le Bonheur; Board Member and 2011 President of the Collierville Literacy Council; Board Member and Secretary of Leadership Collierville; Vice President of Youth Leadership Collierville; and served on the inaugural  St. Jude Give Thanks Walk committee in 2010.

It was a great honor and privilege for Kim to receive the prestigious H. R. Houston award at the 2012 Leadership Collierville graduation ceremony.  And, on February 13, 2013 she received the highest award bestowed by the Collierville Chamber of Commerce, the 2012 Collierville Chamber Person of the Year.  The day was declared a special day of recognition by Collierville Mayor Stan Joyner, Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell, and Governor Bill Haslam.

The family wishes to thank the many people who have kept Kim and us in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.  Kim truly enjoyed reading each card and her spirits were lifted by the numerous flowers and gifts she received.  She lived a full and happy life with devotion to God and family.  She will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be Friday, March 1, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Collierville Christian Church.  The funeral will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 10:00 AM at the church.

Kim requested that any memorials be sent to The Collierville Christian Church,707 N. Byhalia Rd.  or The Collierville Literacy Council, 167 Washington St.