Ellen Kay McKenzie

Kay was born in Keokuk, Iowa to Howard and Sally Dillard on June 24, 1946. She married Richard “Mike” McKenzie on June 17, 1967. During their marriage, Mike and Kay moved several times, finally landing in Tampa for the last 29 years. Kay had numerous jobs over the years, from Building Manager to Files Clerk to Avon Saleswoman, but none as cherished as her role as a homemaker for her family. She was involved in many different social and women’s organizations such as Tampa Grads and Carrollwood Newcomers, as well as several card groups during her years in Tampa. She was always a loud, vibrant character wherever she went. Her favorite pastime, however, was the great joy she took in watching all four of her grandchildren over the years. She was profoundly proud of them all and loved to sing their praises to her friends.

Kay is preceded in death by her parents (Howard and Sally Dillard) and two sisters (Janice Dillard Breakbill and Patricia Dillard Eid)

Kay is survived by her husband and soulmate of 56 years Richard McKenzie, daughter Cori McKenzie Rudy (Rahn Rudy), son Ty McKenzie (Julie Mattice McKenzie), and grandchildren Taylor Rudy, Laura Vest, Grace McKenzie and Connor McKenzie.

There will be a celebration of life service for her at Messiah Lutheran Church in Tampa on Saturday, July 22nd @ 2PM. The address is 14920 Hutchison Rd., Tampa, FL 33625.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like for you to make a donation to The Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision:

lighthouseblv.org