Kimberly Marie Gajewski

On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the world lost someone truly unforgettable. Kimberly M. Gajewski, 65, passed away after a brief but brave battle with cancer, surrounded by her daughters, her sister Donna, and her lifelong best friend Kelly. Anyone who knew Kim knew how deeply she loved her family. She was the fiercely proud mother of three daughters—Chelsea Tersavich (Matt Nelson), Carly O'Connor (Shaun O'Connor), and Casey Gajewski (James Cameron Poffenberger IV). To Kim, her girls were her greatest accomplishment and her constant source of joy. Her heart only grew fuller with the arrival of her grandchildren—Carson, Cassidy, Sylvia, and Aggie—whom she adored, bragged about endlessly, and loved with every part of herself. Kim spent more than 29 years with Pilot/Maersk, a place she poured her whole self into. She wasn't just an employee; she was a steady presence, a mentor, a cheerleader, and a friend to so many. People gravitated toward her because she cared—really cared—and because she met everyone with honesty, humor, and unwavering dedication. The friendships she formed throughout her career were among the great blessings of her life. In 2021, Kim followed her heart to Southport, NC, where she hoped to finish out her years with Pilot/Maersk and eventually retire in the place that made her happiest. She embraced her new community with the same warmth she extended everywhere she went. Whether it was a neighbor, a coworker, or a friend she'd just met, Kim had a way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Outside of work, Kim filled her life with the things that brought her the most joy. She was a devoted dog lover who rarely passed a pup without stopping to say hello. She found peace in her garden, tending every plant with the same care she gave the people she loved. She also loved to cook—always making enough food to feed an army—and nothing made her happier than sharing a meal with the people she cared about. Her faith grounded her, and she was a proud and active member of the Lutheran church—something that guided her throughout her life. Kim will be missed more deeply than words can express. We will carry her with us in the sound of her laugh, in the strength she taught us, and in the love she freely gave to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She is preceded in death by her mother, Mary, and her father, Gerald. We take comfort in imagining her being welcomed home by them—her faith steady, her spirit at peace. At this time, no services are planned, as Kim's family is holding close to one another and taking the space they need to navigate this sudden and heartbreaking loss. For those who feel moved to honor her, we ask that you consider donating to an animal rescue of your choice in Kim's name, or to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington, NC. Their tenderness and compassion brought Kim comfort, dignity, and peace in her final moments, and we are forever grateful.

Kimberly Marie Gajewski

April 7, 1960 - December 9, 2025