Mrs. Kimberly Willard de Castro, age 58, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, January 12, 2026. Born in Hampton, Virginia, on April 28, 1967, she was the beloved daughter of Phillip Donald Willard Sr. and the late Marilyn Faye Joyner Willard.

A lifelong athlete, she found her rhythm in the water, competing as a distinguished swimmer through both her high school and collegiate years at James Madison University. She later advanced her education at Troy University, earning a master's degree that served as the foundation for her career as a meticulous and dedicated Project Manager for Rapid LD and Tier 1.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kimberly's heart belonged to the serenity of the coast. Whether she was finding peace at her family's beach house in the Outer Banks, setting sail on the open sea, or exploring the world's far reaches, she was most at home where the earth met the water. Her journey was shared with her beloved dogs—her constant, loyal companions who mirrored her own capacity for devotion. Kimberly's legacy remains a beautiful reflection of the tides she loved: powerful, constant, and deeply tranquil.

Kimberly's memory will be cherished by her husband of 22 years, Robert G. de Castro; her father, Phillip Donald Willard; her sister, Pamela Troutman (Scott); and her brother, Donald Scott Willard, (Michelle). She also leaves behind her niece and nephews, Matt Willard, Nicholas Willard, Scott Troutman, Jr.  and Bailey Troutman; two great nieces, Skylar and Harper, and a nephew on the way, as well as her lifelong friend, Leigh Newport. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marilyn J. Willard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pledge the Pink Foundation, PO Box 3195, Bluffton, SC 29910.

The family is being served by Burgess Funeral Home & Crematory of Lancaster, South Carolina.