Kaitlyn "McAuley" Millen

October 3, 2001 - March 21, 2023

Charlotte, North Carolina - Kaitlyn "McAuley" Millen, 21, of Charlotte, NC passed away on March 21, 2023 in Athens, GA. She was born on October 3, 2001, the beloved daughter of Don Millen Jr. and Salina Millen (née Hovey).

McAuley was an early verbal child with an unusual, husky voice which bemused and endeared her to those around her. Listening to her sing the alphabet at 9 months old or hold conversations at two was a wonder. She was labelled an old soul at the age of two and she was keenly aware of the emotions and needs of those around her. From early days she was always on the move, gold curls in disarray – arms-pumping, singing songs, swinging in her beloved tree swing, climbing trees, and discovering the world around her. McAuley had an ear for and deep love of music. She loved the water – pool or ocean – that was her happy place. The eight summers she spent at Camp Greystone in the mountain air and particularly sailing on the lake offered her respite and taught her about DMC's – Deep Meaningful Conversations – which she carried with her into the friendships she developed throughout her life. From High School Musical performances in the neighborhood to Jamie Master's Dance Recitals, her interests in dance, singing, soccer, and field hockey kept a skip in her step throughout middle school and into high school.

McAuley's smile, determination, sparkle and quick wit were coupled with a fierce devotion to her friends and family. In the words of a college friend, "McAuley was a beautiful soul who touched all those around her. Her loving soul shone brightly for all those who knew her. She was fiercely loyal and very brave."

A Charlotte Country Day School lifer and 2020 graduate, McAuley was on the state championship field hockey team, participated in the IB program, spring musical, cheerleading, honors choir, and Young Life. McAuley was accepted into the University of Georgia's Honors College in Athens, GA and was grateful to be extended an Honors Scholarship. She was majoring in Psychology. She was a proud member of Phi Mu sorority and the sailing club.

McAuley was a devoted daughter, granddaughter, cousin, niece, and steadfast friend. In her early teen years, McAuley began a battle with the 500 pound presence of extreme, treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. She fought the disease with intense courage and resilience. She is an honored and decorated hero to the many friends, family, and pure-soul life travelers who will always love her and now miss her immensely.

McAuley is survived by her loving parents, Don and Salina; her grandparents Bob and Eola Hovey of Marietta, GA and Don and Starr Millen of Atlanta, GA; her uncle and aunt, Alec and Tammy Millen, and cousins, Chelsea, Amber, Benjamin and Savannah, of Lancaster, PA; and her uncle and aunt, Chris and Suzanne Millen, and cousins Nate, Andrew and Matt, of Norcross, GA.