In Memoriam: Dr. Ralph Killough

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Dr. Ralph Killough, who led Charlotte, N.C.-based Killo Exterminating through years of growth while helping shape the pest management industry in North Carolina and beyond, passed away on July 9. He was 91.

Killough joined Killo Exterminating in 1965 as company entomologist after earning a bachelor's degree in entomology from North Carolina State College and master's and doctoral degrees in entomology from Purdue University. Prior to joining the family business, he served as an entomologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, conducting research on physical methods of fly control around dairy barns. His doctoral research also led to his selection as a consultant on insect-free lighting and pest management during the design of Walt Disney World.

Following the unexpected death of his father, Arnold Killough, in 1970, Killough assumed leadership of the Charlotte operation. He later became president and owner, guiding the company for nearly three decades before transitioning day-to-day leadership to his son-in-law, Brian Windham, in 1998, while continuing to serve as company entomologist.

Killough served as president of Pi Chi Omega, held appointments by two North Carolina governors to the state's Structural Pest Control Committee, served as a director of the National Pest Management Association, and contributed extensively to the North Carolina Pest Management Association, including authoring a best practices guide for member companies.

In 2001, PCT and Syngenta Professional Products named him one of 10 recipients of a Crown Leadership Award. He was inducted into the North Carolina Pest Management Association Hall of Fame in 2010, the organization's highest honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends consider making contributions to the Weekday School at Albemarle Road Presbyterian Church.  

Additional source: Warlick Funeral Home