Kimberly Michelle Gilles

Kimberly Michelle Gilles, age 60, of Madison, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, surrounded by her family. Kim was born on April 9, 1966, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to the late Sharon Lee Kelly and Paul Christopher Gilles. She graduated from Madisonville North Hopkins High School in 1984. She was also preceded in death by her beloved stepfather, Stan Kelly. Kim earned her Associate of Science in Nursing in 2007. She went on to enjoy a rewarding 14-year career as a registered nurse, caring for others with compassion and dedication. Kim found her greatest joy in the people she loved. She shared 20 wonderful years with her partner, Kyle, building a life filled with adventure, companionship, and countless happy moments. Together, they enjoyed riding their motorcycle through the mountains of Colorado, planting a garden, cooking meals, trying new restaurants, and appreciating the simple pleasures of everyday life. Family was always at the heart of everything Kim did. She shared a special bond with her daughters, and some of their most treasured memories include listening to her favorite music, making Christmas treats for Santa, watching scary movies together, spending hours playing Super Mario and Mortal Kombat on the Nintendo, and wearing the handmade Halloween costumes she lovingly created for them each year. Kim had a gift for making everyone feel at home. Whether she was hosting holiday gatherings, welcoming her grandchildren for summer visits, or simply spending an afternoon with family, her home was always filled with comfort, laughter, and togetherness. Her warm sense of humor and contagious laugh were among the many things those who knew her will never forget. She especially loved decorating for the fall, taking family vacations to the beach and Gatlinburg, traveling to visit loved ones, and creating traditions her family will always cherish-from shopping trips and pumpkin patch visits to Fourth of July celebrations and countless days spent making memories together. She also had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her dogs and cats, who were treasured members of her family throughout the years. Kim will be remembered for her caring heart, generous spirit, and the unconditional love she gave so freely to her family and friends. The traditions she created and the moments she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her. She is survived by her devoted partner of 20 years, Kyle Brown of Madison, TN; Kyle’s parents, Paul and Rayma Brown of Providence, KY, whom Kimberly loved as family; her daughters, Lauren (Brian) Early of Owensboro, KY, and Jessica (Tyler) Curran of Carlisle, KY; her sisters, Tammy (Tim) Michael of Cookeville, TN, Nickki Poole of Madisonville, KY, and Summer Warren of Nashville, TN; brother Chris (Tammy) Gilles of Louisville, KY. She was a proud grandmother to Skylar McDaniel, Brayden McDaniel, Jessica Early, Jenna Early, Ava Hines, Isabel Curran, Callen Curran, and Daxton Curran; great-grandson Baylor McDaniel; and great-granddaughter Aubrey Early. Kim is also survived by her uncle and aunt, Dr. John R. Porter and Terry Porter; her nieces and nephews, Ashley (Daryl) Mumford, Baylee Eastwood, Gray (Jennica) Michael, and Emily Michael; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply. A private celebration of Kim's life will be held by her family in accordance with her wishes. Although her presence will be deeply missed, those who knew and loved Kim find comfort in the memories they shared and in knowing her kindness, strength, and spirit will remain with them always.

Kimberly Michelle Gilles

April 9, 1966 - June 17, 2026