Rosemary Owen Kline

December 8, 1932- November 2, 2025

Rosemary Owen Kline, 92, of Wilmington, NC passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2, 2025, in Wilmington. She was the daughter of the late Hayes and Audrey Owen of Prairie Village, KS. She was preceded in death by her brother Reeves Owen and her late husband Robert (Bob) Kline.

She is survived by her three children, Lisa Hicks (Chip) Wilmington, NC; Rob Kline Provincetown, MA; Holly Renton (Simon Mullumby) Sydney, Australia. Her six grandchildren include Charlie Hicks (Hillary Schoelzel) Denver, CO; Libby Hicks (the late Christian Oldham) Wilmington, NC; Tom Hicks (Valerie) Wilmington, NC; Drew Hicks, Wilmington, NC; Angus Renton and Lachlan Renton, Sydney, Australia. She also leaves two great-grandsons, Thomas Hicks, Wilmington, NC and Rhodes Hicks, Denver, CO.

Originally from Kansas, Rosemary was a lifelong loyal Jayhawk fan and proudly graduated from the University of Kansas (KU) in 1954. While at KU, she became a member of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. Rosemary was a member of the KU Chorale group and performed with the A Cappella Choir. After graduation, she brought her passion for music to the classroom, teaching elementary school students in the Kansas City area.

She met her husband, Bob (deceased), on a blind date, and the two soon married. After starting their family, the couple moved to Michigan and later to Ohio. While living in the Midwest, Rosemary enjoyed supporting her children’s activities, including showing horses and ice skating competitions.

Rosemary lived in Wilmington, NC, for over 35 years and was active in several local organizations. A lover of the arts, she became a longtime supporter and board member of the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra, and was bestowed an Honorary Life Member status (“an honorary position for former leaders who have made significant contributions”) in recognition of her distinguished service. Rosemary was also an active supporter and member of the Cameron Art Museum, and the local public radio, WHQR. She served on several of their boards and committees and played an active role in fundraising.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of Rosemary’s caregivers at Bradley Creek Health Center at Carolina Bay. Your empathy, compassion, and inclusivity toward your residents are deeply appreciated. Thank you for treating Rosemary like a member of your own family; your care brought great comfort to her and to all who loved her.

A private family service and burial were held on November 6, 2025, at Oleander Memorial Gardens Wilmington, NC, with Covil Funeral Services. Rosemary’s resting place lies peacefully beneath the oak and pine trees, near the Intracoastal Waterway, a place she cherished. Rosemary’s legacy continues through her treasured baby grand piano, now part of the new live music program at the Wilmington International Airport.