WILMINGTON — Kaye Warren Applewhite, 79, passed peacefully into Glory on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at her home.
Born in Washington, Beaufort County, North Carolina to the late Louise Lowe and James Warren, on October 28, 1946, Kaye embodied a spirit of resilience and unwavering faith. She faced life’s challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth and as a testament to the power of perseverance. Throughout her journey, Kaye was a beacon of hope and strength to all who knew her.
Kaye’s Professional life was characterized by dedication and achievement. After completing the Nursing Program at UNC-W, she began her career as a Premature Infant ICU Nurse at Rex Hospital in Raleigh, NC, she inspired colleagues with her work ethic and commitment to excellence. After the family relocated to Wilmington, she worked as an ON-CALL Nurse, primarily Oncology. Beyond professional pursuits, Kaye’s greatest joy came from UM Women Grace Circle, reaching out to others, feeding the hungry, and visiting the Shut-In, which she pursued with passion and shared freely with others.
As a devoted wife, mother, sister, neighbor, Kaye leaves behind a legacy of love and the enduring belief that every life is a victory, and the assurance that she will receive eternal life through her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
She is survived by her loving family, her husband of 60 years, Rev. George William Applewhite, Sr, (Bill); her daughter, Terri Applewhite Jenkins; her grandchildren, Alexander (Alex) William Johnson, Carley Joan Johnson, Slade William Applewhite; her sisters- in- law, Mary A. Rogers, Betty Harrison, and husband, Mike, Cynthia Wolff and husband, Mark; her nieces, Sarah Worley and husband, Luke, Laura Smith and husband, Ben, Beth Allred and husband, Dennis, Angela Adams and husband, Mark; her nephews, Lowell Rogers, and wife, Ashlee, Ryan Rivenbark; and many other cherished relatives and friends.
Kaye was preceded in death by both her parents, her sister, Florence Leigh Rivenbark, and her son, George William Applewhite, Jr (Billy).
A celebration of Kaye’s journey and “going home” will be held at a date and time to be determined in January.
The family requests memorial donations be made to the following organizations in Kaye’s Honor, continuing her legacy of supporting others and answering Jesus’ commandments in Matthew 25:31-46:
- Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601 (800)-272-3900
- Methodist Home for Children, 1041 Washington Street, Raleigh, NC 27605 (919)-833-2834 or (888)-305-4321
- Your local Food Pantry or Thrift Shop
Kaye’s light will forever echo in our hearts, reminding us to live with courage, embrace triumph, and know that we are always on our way home.
“To God be the Glory, great things He hath done”
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
