1943
2017
Ellen "Kay" McKenzie, 74 years of age, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2017 at The Medical City of Plano. Kay was born July 24, 1943 in Ashland, KY to the late William and Marjorie Arthur. Kay had three siblings, the late Susan Mullins, Mary Arthur and William Arthur. In 1963, Kay married the love of her life; the late Jack McKenzie and they enjoyed over 50 years of marriage.
Those who knew Kay loved her quick wit and sense of humor that could make the toughest sailor blush! She had a magical way of getting you to laugh at yourself and when she zinged you, she always joined in by laughing at herself too. With Kay's humor came incredible compassion and kindness. Friends and even strangers felt they could talk to her about all their problems and usually did. Her children have many memories of their friends and kids in the neighborhood stopping by for advice, encouragement and good laughs.
She loved her family with an unwavering fierceness and her loyalty to them was an anchor in their lives, because they knew she would always be in their corner. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.
Kay was one of the strongest women you would ever know. She fought a battle over the last few years that a heavy weight boxer couldn't win but she never quit, never stopped pushing herself she never laid down for the count.
Kay leaves to cherish her beautiful memory to her children, William Raymond McKenzie, Elizabeth Charlene McKenzie, Paula Kay Payne (Robert), Sue Paris (Ed), and Bobby Joe Lakes, 6 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, many friends and a very special friend, Pauline Ward who was a treasured gift to mom.
Kay was a beacon of light that will live on in all of us.
Arrangements under the direction of Ted Dickey Funeral Home, Plano, TX.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Ted Dickey Funeral Home.
October 14, 2017
To Kay's children and friends we send our deepest expressions of sympathy. Jack and Kay were true friends of ours and we were certainly blessed that our paths crossed many years ago here at Patuxent River, Maryland. We miss you Kay but know that the rewards waiting for you when you and Jack are reunited are the best anyone could ask for. To all of the family we send our love. Dick & Jackie Solomon
October 8, 2017
Angie Truitt
I will always be so grateful that I got to know Kay well enough that she will always be a part of me. I'm confident she knew how very much she meant to me. She was so sick for so long, but was still very much Kay :) Thanks to Charlene's fierce determination and vigilant care (in spite of all her medical issues herself), Kay passed away at home, just as she wanted. She was one in a MILLION.
October 3, 2017
D'Ann Hamill
I adored Kay's laugh and sense of humor. When ever I called the house (back in the day) to talk to Lena, she would always act like she was Lena, they sounded just alike on the phone. We'd talk and talk until I figured out it wasn't Lena and we'd laugh for ever. I'm sure she heard things she didn't care to!! Sorry Lena. I finally started asking who's this?
Lena and I also shared our first apartment together. Kay was working for the Plano School's Cafeteria, on the weekends Kay would bring us left over frozen pizzas, our apartment became a hit with everyone. It always was a great time. Kay was very kind and comforting to me after my mother passed. Rest in Peace and Comfort now Kay and know you will always be loved in this world.
October 2, 2017
Rick & Catherine Pate
Our heartfelt condolence to the McKenzie family. Our mothers are just irreplaceable in our hearts and in our lives. It's always too soon to lose them no matter when they go. We send our love and the prayer that our Lord Jesus will comfort you always and that you will all rejoice in Heaven when you are reunited there with her.
October 2, 2017
Jana Bouse
I am so sorry about Kay's passing. She was a lovely, thoughtful person and I will miss her very much. My heart hurts for everyone who knew her, she was a treasure and I feel lucky to have known her.
September 30, 2017
So sorry for your loss of your loved one. Had not seen Paul and Kay for years but loved them dearly. First cousins lose touch too easily. I am praying for the peace of God to comfort and surround all of you during this time. Love your cousin, Debra Ruth McKenzie Kemp
September 29, 2017
Sherrie Payne
The loss of such a great person is never easy. But when that great person is an Aunt it hits even harder. She meant so much too many people. My heart and prayers are with you all and of course my love. I miss you Aunt Kay. I will miss your bright light. Love you.
September 29, 2017
Diane Graef
Of all the things I loved about Kay McKenzie, these things I will treasure most: her inherent joy -- her laugh will remain in my heart and mind, forever; her fierce devotion to her family and friends; her sweetness and sense of humor, even during the darkest times. Our family's history is intertwined with the McKenzies. I will always remember Kay and Jack and their wee ones (who I babysat!) in Patuxent River (Paula called my dad "Santa Closson" and she could always get a dill pickle from him when she came over) -- Kay's sun tea, shared with my mom during their afternoon chats; Jack and my dad catching a pregnant stingray (which gave birth on the pier - much drama ensued); New Years Eve pancakes and weekend card games with my folks; Kay and my mom and me creating ceramic art on base together (I still have some of it). I love you Kay McKenzie. May you, and Jack, and all of those who went before you, dance and laugh and love in Heaven, for all eternity. Diane (Closson) Graef
September 29, 2017
May the memories of your Mom and the love of family surround you and give you strength in the days ahead. May the love of family and friends comfort you during these difficult days. Our most heartfelt condolences.
Ron & Mavis Dougherty
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