William "Bill" O. Kivlighan, Jr.

William “Bill” Owen Kivlighan, Jr., 92, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 7, 2026, at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville after an extended hospitalization there.

He was born on May 28, 1934, in Staunton, Virginia, to the late William “Prep” and Isabel Briola Kivlighan.

Bill was the widower of his beloved wife, Pamela “Pam” Ann Miller Kivlighan, who preceded him in death by twenty-two years.

Bill attended Saint Francis of Assisi School and graduated from Robert E. Lee High School, both in Staunton. He also attended Augusta Military Academy in Augusta County, Virginia, and the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia. He later served in the United States Marine Corps at Parris Island and Camp Lejeune.

Aside from his two years of military service, Bill was a lifelong resident of Staunton and a dedicated member of the community. As a third-generation Staunton businessman, he owned and operated The Men's Store, a downtown landmark founded by his father.

The Men's Store was known not only for its fine men's clothing but also as a gathering place in downtown Staunton. It became a place where people stopped to discuss politics, the day's news, or simply catch up with friends. Bill welcomed everyone, whether longtime customers, neighbors, or passersbys. His door was always open, even to those who simply needed to use a telephone.

Bill was active in numerous local organizations, including the Staunton-Augusta Chamber of Commerce and the Jaycees, among others. He was also a familiar face with The Coffee Club at Kathy's, the (Young) Men's Supper Club, and remained a regular at the Staunton-Augusta YMCA until his illness.

Bill also served as an election official while his wife, Pam, served as Voter Registrar.

He was a devoted husband, especially during Pam's illness, and a loving father who adored his daughters, serving as their constant source of guidance, strength, and support.

Family and community were the cornerstones of Bill's life. Whenever family called, he answered - always.

He is survived by his daughters Katherine Briola Kivlighan Taylor and her husband John, and Virginia Vail Kivlighan; his brother, Dr. Michael Francis Kivlighan and his wife, Charlotte; his sister-in-law, Carol Miller; his nieces and nephews, Alycia Kivlighan, Lauren Kivlighan, Michael Kivlighan, Jim Kivlighan, Jr. (Mia), Laura Kivlighan, Helen Kivlighan Bell (Paul), Vail Miller, Jr. (Leslie), Brooke Miller Hice (Sean), and Michael Miller (Marissa); his fifteen great-nieces and nephews; and a great-great niece.

He is also survived by a large number of cousins, by blood and marriage - as well as very good friends and neighbors.

In addition to his parents and his wife, he is preceded in death by his brother, James “Jim” Richard Kivlighan and his wife, Joan; his sister, Mary Carole Kivlighan; and a brother-in-law, Vail Koiner Miller.

A funeral Mass will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Staunton with Father Matthias Lusembo officiating.

Interment will immediately follow at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton, followed by a gathering at Assisi Hall at Saint Francis.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Staunton Fire Department (500 N Augusta Street, Staunton, VA 24401) in appreciation of their Lift Assist service, or to Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (118 North New Street, Staunton, VA 24401), or to a charity of your choice that serves your local community.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Augusta Health Home Health for the care, support, and kindness they provided throughout the past year. Their dedication was truly invaluable to Bill and his family.

To honor Bill's memory, visit Gypsy Hill Park - a place he wished to visit one more time, but was unable to. And don't forget to check in with your family. They'll always appreciate a phone call.

Henry Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.