Love You More A Celebration of the Life of Kimberly Michelle Lea December 4, 1975 – October 15, 2026

Some people have a special way of making you feel loved, and Kimberly Michelle Lea was one of those people. She expressed her love through her words, her actions, and the genuine care she showed to those around her. And whenever someone told Kim, "I love you," her response was always the same: "I love you more."Four simple words that captured so much of who she was.Kimberly was born on December 4, 1975, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to the late Alexander Headen and Veronica Carter Headen. She grew into a strong, independent, and determined woman with a caring heart and a personality all her own.

A proud graduate of James Benson Dudley High School, Class of 1995, Kimberly continued her education at Greensboro College, earning her bachelor's degree in Accounting and Finance in 2007. Throughout her professional journey, Kimberly shared her knowledge and talents with several organizations, including Gilbarco, Purolator, General Dynamics, TD Bank, and Elon University. Her dedication to her work reflected her determination and commitment to the responsibilities she undertook

But beyond her education and career was the Kimberly everyone knew and loved.Kimberly was a woman who knew exactly who she was. She was loving, thoughtful, and compassionate, but she was also a straight shooter. She spoke her mind, stood firm in her beliefs, and never felt the need to sugarcoat the truth. With Kimberly, you always knew where you stood. Her honesty was part of her charm, and beneath that strong personality was a heart filled with love and genuine concern for others.

If Kimberly loved you, she made sure you knew it. One of her favorite ways of showing love was through cooking. Kimberly enjoyed preparing meals and making sure everyone around her was well fed and cared for. If you were in her presence, chances were she was going to ask whether you had eaten or needed anything. She had a natural way of looking after people, and those simple acts of kindness were just another way she said, "I love you more.

Kimberly also knew how to enjoy life. She loved traveling, and cruising held a special place in her heart. Whether setting sail for another adventure, visiting new destinations, or simply enjoying a well-deserved getaway, she appreciated the opportunity to experience life and create beautiful memories.

Her Love Story For 23 years, Kimberly and Lamont shared a journey of love, friendship, and partnership, including 21 years of marriage.To Lamont, Kimberly was so much more than his wife. He lovingly described her as his "right brain, best friend, and soulmate." She was the person who helped him think through life's decisions, offered perspective when he needed it, and stood beside him as they navigated life together. She was his partner in every sense of the word.Their relationship was a beautiful reflection of love that extends beyond words. As Kimberly faced health challenges over the years, Lamont remained steadfastly by her side. Through the good days, the difficult days, and everything in between, his devotion never wavered.

Together, they shared a love rooted in friendship, commitment, understanding, and the promise of always being there for one another.A Mother's Love Like No Other Of all the roles Kimberly held throughout her life, being a mother was one she treasured deeply.Her son, Hayden, was her pride and joy. Kimberly was his protector, his advocate, and one of his biggest supporters. She was involved in every aspect of his life, making sure he had the love, encouragement, and guidance he needed.She celebrated his accomplishments, supported him through challenges, and took tremendous pride in watching him grow into the young man he is today.

As Hayden entered his senior year of high school, Kimberly continued to be a source of love and strength in his life. Although she will not be physically present for every milestone ahead, the love she poured into him will remain with him always.Her guidance, her protection, and her unconditional love are gifts that time can never take away.And in every way a mother could, Kimberly showed Hayden what it meant to say, "I love you more.

Forever in Our Hearts Kimberly was preceded in death by her loving parents, Alexander Headen and Veronica Carter Headen; her maternal grandmother, Narvie R. Carter; her paternal grandmother, Mozen Settle Headen; her maternal uncle, Ronald E. Carter Sr.; and her paternal uncles, Anthony Headen and Hampton Headen.She leaves to cherish her precious memories her devoted husband of 21 years, Richard Lamont Lea; her beloved son, Hayden Alexander Lea; her godson, Jaden Johnson; her parents-in-law, Richard B. Lea and Brenda Lea; her sister-in-law, Crystal Lea; her brother-in-law, Sherrod Siler; her stepmother, Jean Headen; her stepsister, Stephanie Wade; her paternal aunts, Juanita Wright and Elaine Moore; her cousins, Rolanda Carter Johnson, Andrea Carter, Stephanie Moore, Monica Headen Smith, and Ronald Carter Jr.; and her cherished friends, Kristie J. Mebane, Tammy Marlowe, and Virginia Roberts.She is also lovingly remembered by a host of extended family members and friends whose lives were touched by her love, kindness, and unforgettable spirit.I Love You More.

 Kimberly's life reminds us that love is found in both the extraordinary and the everyday moments.It is found in a husband's unwavering devotion, a mother's fierce protection, a meal prepared with care, a thoughtful gesture, an honest conversation, and the memories made with those we hold dear.Kimberly loved in her own special way. She was strong, she was genuine, she was caring, and she was unapologetically herself.While her earthly journey has come to an end, her love continues through Lamont, through Hayden, and through the family and friends who will forever cherish her memory. And perhaps one of the greatest gifts Kimberly leaves behind is the reminder to never hesitate to tell the people we love just how much they mean to us.Because with Kimberly, "I love you" was never the end of the conversation.There was always one more thing to say.So today, as we celebrate her life, honor her memory, and hold close the love she gave so freely, we say:"We love you, Kim!"And somewhere in our hearts, we can still hear her familiar response… "I Love You More."