Citizen religion editor Judy Kilgore is on medical leave, publisher Cal Beverly announced this week.

Ms. Kilgore has worked at The Citizen for many years, serving as religion editor for more than five years. She recently underwent bypass surgery on her heart but is recovering well and expected to be back to work later this spring. She remains in close contact with the staff at the paper via phone and e-mail. In fact, Beverly noted that she conveyed the news of her illness with all the grit and dedication of a good reporter, beginning with a Saturday afternoon call from the ambulance while enroute to Piedmont Hospital.

“I am having a heart attack,” Kilgore said. “Please tell Cal I won’t be at work Monday. I may be there on Tuesday but I won’t be there Monday.”

Many of her contacts and readers, particularly those who enjoy her column “Finding Your Folks” in The Citizen’s weekend papers, have expressed interest in her absence. Those who wish to send her greetings directly are encouraged to email her at [email protected].

In the meantime, her job is being handled by other staff members. Continue to send news announcements or queries for our religion pages to [email protected].

“We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this time,” Beverly said. “As you can see, Judy has much spunk. We don’t expect her to remain at home long.”