Nancy Field Wilson

Nancy Field Killian Wilson was born on May 30, 1923, in Owensboro, Kentucky and died May 29, 2014, at her home, just one day before her 91st birthday. A twenty year colon cancer survivor, she succumbed to lung cancer after a 2+ year battle, armed only with sheer will and determination.

She is survived by her daughter, Mildred Ann Killian of Owensboro; a son, Charles Field Killian; nephews; William Russell Young, Whitney Field Newton, Owen Pillow; a niece, Kay Keil Hutchinson; and one step daughter, Harlan Shropshire. Extended family by her second marriage includes Dr. Daniel Shepherd and family.

Daughter of Charles Eldred Field and Mildred Anita Stout, she was preceded in death by her sisters Marilyn Field Young , Joanne Mildred Field Weller, and Virginia Elise Field Newton.

Nancy grew up in Owensboro and graduated from Owensboro High School, class of 1941. She attended Chevy Chase Junior College in Washington D.C for two years. Nancy went on to major in commercial art and graphic design at Washington University in St. Louis. She married Benno James Killian, Jr. in 1947. Mr. Killian died in 1965. In 1970 Nancy married Dr. Harlan Wilson, who died in 1979.

She continued her father's tradition as a major supporter of Brescia University, and was a driving force behind the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art for decades. Nancy established the B.J. Killian foundation in 1983 to honor her first husband and for the purpose of supporting disadvantaged persons, educational interests, and Catholic missions of service to those in need. She remained a locally recognized philanthropist, especially a supporter of the arts and education throughout her life, and was a talented artist herself. She lived in Owensboro all her life, except her university years, and was a member of Immaculate Parish.

Her family wishes acknowledge the kind support and friendship of Dova Tinsley, who provided care and comfort for Nancy and her family throughout the years.

The funeral mass will be held at 11am on Monday June 2, 2014 at Immaculate Catholic Church. Fr. Tony Jones will officiate. Visitation will be on Monday after 10 AM at the church. Nancy will be buried alongside Benno James Killian, Jr. at Elmwood Cemetery.

The family requests that condolences should be expressed in the form of donations made in Nancy's name to The American Cancer Society 1302 Frederica St, Owensboro, Kentucky 42301.

The family would like to thank Care Companions of Owensboro, Home Instead of Owensboro, and Hospice of Western Kentucky for providing at home care, which allowed Nancy to fulfill her desire to be surrounded by her art, and stay with her best pal Robby the Scottish terrier until the very end.

Condolences may be offered online at www.glennfuneralhome.com