In a single moment, our world was turned upside down when my brother, Austen, received a call that would change his life forever. While driving home, an oncoming vehicle crossed into Kim’s lane, resulting in a devastating head-on collision. Kim and Bailee were both airlifted to the nearest hospital for urgent medical care. Tragically, Kim did not survive the impact. Miraculously, Bailee’s life was spared, though she now faces a long and difficult road of extensive medical treatment and recovery.
Kim’s extended family and close-knit community are rallying around the Rife and Lee families as they navigate the tremendous loss of a wife, mother and daughter, while also facing the uncertainty of Bailee’s healing journey.
Kim was a fiercely compassionate advocate for the most vulnerable members of our community. She had a rare gift for connecting deeply with others—something you could only truly understand if you had the privilege of knowing her. Her impact was profound and far-reaching.
Her loss extends well beyond her immediate family. Kim ran a Family Foster Care Home alongside her husband, where they care for four disabled adults. Her sudden passing will also be felt around the community as she led the local school backpack program, organized a Summer Football Camp, and hosted a monthly community gathering that brought people together over a free meal and her ever-present warmth and kindness.
As Austen grieves the loss of his wife of 20 years, he remains by Bailee’s side, focused on her recovery and taking each day as it comes. At the same time, he is supporting their four boys as they mourn the heartbreaking loss of their mother.
We are calling on the community to fill even a fraction of the unimaginable void left in Austen's heart by the unraveling of the life he so intently created alongside Kim. Immediate needs include respite staff for the Adult Foster Care Home, mounting medical expenses, ongoing care for Bailee, funeral costs, support for their four boys, and administrative needs as Austen navigates the many challenges ahead.
In honoring Kim’s memory, we also honor the love, service, and compassion she gave so freely to others.
*For Clarity - my name is Autumn Lancaster and Austen Rife is my big brother. Kim has been in my life since I can remember. Austen and Kim were high-school sweethearts, so I grew up with her in my life. All proceeds will be transferred directly into Austen's bank account, allowing him the flexibility to meet the evolving needs of his family in the days and months ahead.
