James A Killian

James A. Killian, 90, of Exeter Township, passed away on Monday, October 4, 2021, in his home, with his loving wife by his side. He was the husband Constance J. (Grill) Killian. Born in West Reading, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Harry M and Bessie M. (Feeg) Killian. James graduated from West Reading High School, he then went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree form Kutztown State Teachers College, his M.Div from Lancaster Theological Seminary, and his D.Min from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. James taught at Blue Mountain School District and served as the Principal of Orwigsburg Jr. High School. He also taught in the Wilson School District and finished his teaching career in Reading School District as a teacher of Secondary Special Education. James served as president of the advisory board of Berks County Children Services, on the Planning Division (Vice Chair) and Board of Directors and Executive Committee of United Way of Berks County. He was the past moderator of the Berks Association of the United Church of Christ and served churches in Birdsboro, Allegheny Charge, and Pricetown. In his retirement, Killian has served as interim pastor at St. John's U.C.C., Reading, Grace Alsace U.C.C., Leesport, St. John's (Gernant's) U.C.C., Bethany Lutheran Church, West Reading, St. Paul's Memorial U.C.C., and Reading, New Jerusalem U.C.C., New Jerusalem. James was the author of CROWN OF THORNS and PEOPLE OF BETHLEHEM, published by Contemporary Press, Colorado Springs, as well as articles in the UPPER ROOM magazine and a series of Devotional books entitled THE JOURNEY. He also contributed a chapter of the Civil War in FIRST CENTURY published by Stackpole Press, Harrisburg. James continued his military career after serving with the Army Security Agency during the Korean War with over two years in Japan in direct support of military actions in Korea. Upon return, he enlisted in the army reserve, and served with many units. He was appointed a Warrant Officer (crypto) and then received a direct commission, Signal Corps branch. After years of service and following a break in service for his ministerial studies, Killian returned to his old unit to serve as their chaplain. Several more years followed and, finally, James "called it quits" and retired with rank of Major.

In addition to his wife, Connie, James is survived by his two sons; Gary A. Killian (USAF-Ret.), husband of Patti, Rockledge, FL, and Steven Killian, Parkside, Delaware County. He is also survived by one granddaughter, Lauryl E. Killian, one great-grandson William, and one brother John F. Killian, Elizabethtown. James was predeceased by his brothers Joseph E. Killian, Bruce Killian, and his sister Jayne Pierce.

Visitation with family and friends will be held on Sunday, October 10, 2021 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm with services beginning at 12:30 pm in Community UCC, 3330 St. Lawrence Ave, Reading Pa 19606, masks are required to be worn at church. Interment will be held privately at Forest Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to to the church memorial fund at the address above. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com