WILLIAMSTON, SC                                                             DECEMBER 7, 2025

Karoline Amity Motley, 45, of Williamston, South Carolina was called home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, November 30, 2025. Tragically, Karoline was killed in a home fire in Savannah, GA while heroically trying to save her mother Paula O'brien, who was also killed in the fire.

Born in Kingsport, TN, Karoline grew up in Big Stone Gap, VA where she was raised by her loving Grandparents Curtis and Leah Branham, alongside her older brother Gabe. Karoline grew up with a deep love for Jesus and family. Karoline and Gabe were not simply siblings, but lifelong best friends.

In 1994, Karoline and Gabe moved to Asheville, NC. Karoline quickly became friends with those she encountered. She had a radiant smile, contagious laugh, was witty, loving and was a fiercely loyal friend. While attending Clyde A. Erwin High School Karoline was a competitive tennis player and participated in chorus, graduating in 1998.

After High School while working at the United States Attorney's Office, Karoline met the love of her life, James B. Motley Jr. of Charlotte, NC. The two began dating, falling quickly and deeply in love. They were married 6 months later in July of 2003 on the island of Maui, Hawaii.  For over 22 Karoline was the Godly wife Jim had been praying for - the best woman, wife, mother, and his best friend. Truly an answered prayer.

Karoline was a fiercely proud and endlessly devoted mother to her boys, Ryan (21), and Colton (15). She loved them with every fiber of her being and extend the same love to her German Shepherd fur babies Ranger and Jagger.

Karoline was a woman who radiated love and light wherever she went. Anyone who knew her couldn't help but adore her - her smile lit up every room and every baseball field. She was a devoted wife to Jim, a fiercely loving mother to her boys, and a loyal friend who poured her heart into every relationship. Her love for her husband and children was unmistakable; she was their biggest cheerleader and lived for their happiness. She cherished her family deeply, often speaking of her grandparents and their profound impact on her life. Warm, kind, and selfless, she always put others first, even in her final moments, showing the same bold courage that defined her life.

Karoline was a patriot who loved her country with a passion that was loud, steadfast, and unapologetic. From the moment many met her, her brilliant blue eyes and infectious enthusiasm whether over shared political beliefs, Trump rallies, or simply life itself- created instant connections. She spoke truth without hesitation, stood firmly for what was right, and lived her faith out loud. Her patriotism, honesty, and deep love for the Lord were matched only by the fierce devotion she had for her husband and sons. Karoline made ordinary moments like baseball games, movie nights, pool parties, music bingo, or sunset conversations- feel extraordinary because she brought her whole heart to them.

She is survived by her husband, Jim; sons, Ryan (21) and Colton (15); brother, Gabe Quinley; sister-in-law, Christine Quinley; nephew, Cameron Quinley; and many many dear friends.

Karoline will be laid to rest with her mom Paula O'brien, next to her Grandparents in a private family cemetery.

Though her time here feels far too short, Karoline's legacy of courage, kindness, and unwavering strength will live on in everyone she touched. She leaves behind a heartbroken family and a circle of friends who will miss her laughter at the ballfields, her driveway drop-offs, and the way she made being a boy's mother feel like the greatest adventure in the world.  We grieve the plans left unfinished, yet we find comfort knowing God has welcomed her home.  Until we meet again, Karoline, we love you so much.

Please visit www.sturgillfuneral.com to leave online condolences for the family.

Sturgill Funeral Home 1621 Norton Road SW Wise, VA 24293 is in charge of arrangements.