Anthony “Tony” Kilburn, 85, passed away on Jan. 31, 2026 with his loving family by his side.
Tony was born on Dec. 24, 1940, to Russell and Willa Garrah Kilburn in New York City. Raised primarily in Chappaqua, N.Y., he spent his boyhood summers with his family and friends in Cornwall, Conn. He attended Horace Greeley High School, The Gunnery, and Susquehanna University.
Throughout his sales career, he embraced the opportunity to work across diverse industries, approaching each role with curiosity and a genuine eagerness to learn. One of his greatest pleasures was his eight years working at Weatherbird in Damariscotta in what he happily called partial retirement. There, he was known not just as an employee, but as a friendly presence – always ready with a story, a laugh, thoughtful advice, or, best of all, a recipe.
Tony will be remembered as a warm, generous man, quick with a joke, quicker still to lend a helping hand, with a generous spirit and deep love for his family. He supported his wife Jan in her career as a watercolorist and proudly referred to himself as “Mr. Jan Kilburn” when introduced at art receptions and shows. He was a skilled carpenter, a wonderful cook, and an active participant in his church’s community outreach events and choir.
A veteran of the U.S. Army, Tony quietly and patriotically served his country. He spoke often of his gratitude for the care he received during his last decade of life from Togus VA Medical Hospital following his diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Tony was predeceased by his parents; and sister, Sally Deuchler. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Janice Weymouth Kilburn; brother, R. Peter Kilburn (Natalie); children, Peter Kilburn (Patricia) and Megan Kilburn; stepchildren, John Murphy, David Murphy (Isabelle), and Matthew Bowley; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at the Sheepscot Valley Community Church in the spring with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tony’s memory to: The Ecumenical Food Pantry, P.O. Box 46, Newcastle, ME 04553.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta, ME 04543. Condolences and messages for his family may be expressed by visiting stronghancock.com.
