Kaitlyn "McAuley" Millen
March 21, 2023
Kaitlyn “McAuley” Millen, 21, of Charlotte, NC passed away on March 21, 2023 in Athens, GA. She was born on October 3, 2001, the beloved daughter of Don Millen Jr. and Salina Millen (née Hovey).
McAuley was an early verbal child with an unusual, husky voice which bemused and endeared her to those around her. Listening to her sing the alphabet at 9 months old or hold conversations at two was a wonder. She was labelled an old soul at the age of two and she was keenly aware of the emotions and needs of those around her. From early days she was always on the move, gold curls in disarray – arms-pumping, singing songs, swinging in her beloved tree swing, climbing trees, and discovering the world around her. McAuley had an ear for and deep love of music. She loved the water – pool or ocean – that was her happy place. The eight summers she spent at Camp Greystone in the mountain air and particularly sailing on the lake offered her respite and taught her about DMC’s – Deep Meaningful Conversations – which she carried with her into the friendships she developed throughout her life. From High School Musical performances in the neighborhood to Jamie Master’s Dance Recitals, her interests in dance, singing, soccer, and field hockey kept a skip in her step throughout middle school and into high school.
McAuley’s smile, determination, sparkle and quick wit were coupled with a fierce devotion to her friends and family. In the words of a college friend, “McAuley was a beautiful soul who touched all those around her. Her loving soul shone brightly for all those who knew her. She was fiercely loyal and very brave.”
A Charlotte Country Day School lifer and 2020 graduate, McAuley was on the state championship field hockey team, participated in the IB program, spring musical, cheerleading, honors choir, and Young Life. McAuley was accepted into the University of Georgia’s Honors College in Athens, GA and was grateful to be extended an Honors Scholarship. She was majoring in Psychology. She was a proud member of Phi Mu sorority and the sailing club.
McAuley was a devoted daughter, granddaughter, cousin, niece, and steadfast friend. In her early teen years, McAuley began a battle with the 500 pound presence of extreme, treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. She fought the disease with intense courage and resilience. She is an honored and decorated hero to the many friends, family, and pure-soul life travelers who will always love her and now miss her immensely.
McAuley is survived by her loving parents, Don and Salina; her grandparents Bob and Eola Hovey of Marietta, GA and Don and Starr Millen of Atlanta, GA; her uncle and aunt, Alec and Tammy Millen, and cousins, Chelsea, Amber, Benjamin and Savannah, of Lancaster, PA; and her uncle and aunt, Chris and Suzanne Millen, and cousins Nate, Andrew and Matt, of Norcross, GA.
The Millen family will hold a memorial service in celebration of their cherished McAuley’s life on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church, 200 West Trade Street, Charlotte, NC, with a reception to follow at the church. In honor of McAuley’s exquisite sense of style and beauty in all their forms, the family asks that her favorite colors be worn the day of the service – lavender, periwinkle, and light pink. McAuley’s Celebration Service will be live streamed at 11:00 AM for those who are unable to attend: https://firstprescharlotte.online.church.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, memorials in McAuley’s name may be sent to HopeWay at https://hopeway.org/donate (or via mail to 1717 Sharon Road West, Charlotte, NC 28210). HopeWay is a critical provider of Mental Health services for young adults and teens.
We love you, McAuley, and will miss you forever.
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC; 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.
Comments
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Salina, You and your family have been in my prayers and my deepest condolences are being sent. I remember McAuley and Conor had lower school classes together and her bright smile and bubbly personality was shining back then. Parker also knew her through upper school and sports. I know she is resting in peace and no longer suffering. My God be with you now and always and cherish all the great memories of your sweet little girl. Laura
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My deepest condolences for your loss. Rest in Peace Mcauly.
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Dear Eola,
I remember well meeting McAuley when you brought her with you to one of our teacher gatherings at O'Charley's. She was a toddler I believe. Skipping and all dressed up in her summer wear with bows in her hair. She was such a little bundle of joy and quite interested in what was going on around her. I was most impressed with her vocabulary, intelligence, and charm. She was quite mature for her age. I fully expected her to order a glass of wine at any moment. The love and special relationship you both shared was awesome. My heart is sad for you and your family. Please extend my condolences to Bob, Salina, Don, and the rest of your family and friends. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. -
Salina and Don,
Although we do not personally know each other, I have certainly heard your names mentioned many times over the years from my daughter and son-in-law, Lorrie Anne and Cannon. I’m so very sorry about McAuley… I read her obituary and watched her beautiful memorial service online this morning. McAuley was obviously an outstanding young lady and loved by so many… the church was full to capacity. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and may God help you to find peace.
My sincere sympathy,
Susan Whitesell -
Salina, I’m so incredibly sorry for the loss of your dear McAuley. I know just how much joy she brings you and will continue to. She sounds like a lovely and special soul. I pray that you can hold her most happiest memories close in these times of sadness. Praying for peace. We all are. ❤️
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My deepest condolences to the entire Millen family for your loss of this beautiful and brave young woman. I am so saddened to learn of her battle with depression, and I hope that your bringing awareness to it will help some other family to avoid this tragedy. You all are in my heart and in my prayers.
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Don and Salina , there are no words to express my deep compassion for you. McAuley was in my very first class of kindergartners at CCDS. It was one of the best groups of students I ever had the privilege to teach, and McAuley was a standout. Always sweet, cheerful, and kind. Always in love with learning. She was such a shining young girl. I continued to run into her on campus over the years, and she was just as friendly and respectful as ever. I'm so sorry for your great loss and the deep sorrow you carry. I pray that you can celebrate the beautiful person she was, the joy she brought to so many, and all your happy memories of cherished times together. I pray for peace and comfort for you and your family.
Rachel Dunham -
Donnie and Salina, I am so very sorry. You and your families are on my mind and continue to be in my prayers. I am so glad I had the change to meet McAuley a few times over the years. She was such a beautiful, genuine and kind person. May her memory be a blessing to you in all the days to come.
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Donnie and Salina, My heart breaks for you. There are absolutely no words to describe the sorrow I feel for you. Our prayers are with you and all the family.
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Although there are no words to truly comfort you during this time of loss and heartache, please accept my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies during this difficult time. Sending prayers for strength and thoughts of love and support to your family and to all who have had the blessing of Kaitlyn 'McAuley' in their lives.
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