Kate Ellen Autry

CONROE, TX – Kay Autry, 72, died unexpectedly on February 17, 2026. She was born April 29, 1953, in Fayetteville, the daughter of Wilbur T. and Ellen (Deaver) Brantley. As well, she was especially close with her family members Deda & Bo. She graduated from Terry Sanford High School, Class of 1971. Following graduation, she began a career in mortgage banking that lasted more than 30 years. She married Wayne Autry of Stedman and they settled in Fayetteville, only recently moving to Texas to be near their children and grandchildren. This month they celebrated 50 years of marriage on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026.

She is survived by her husband Wayne and her brother, Mike Brantley of Murphy, NC. Surviving in addition and residing in Houston, TX are her son, Stuart Autry (Jill); daughters, Suzanne Burns (Joel) and Mandy Ogden (Josh); and six grandchildren, Cooper, Bowman, Taylor, Avery, Brantley, and Elleigh.

A service of remembrance will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, February 28 at

First Presbyterian Church, 102 Ann St., Fayetteville, NC. The family will receive visitors in the church parlor from 1:30 – 3:00 pm prior to the service.

Due to her unending love of animals and especially her dog, Teddy, those who wish to remember Kay in a special way may make gifts in her memory to their local SPCA.