Kay Harris Willy

Kay was loving and she was loved. As a teacher, and student of humanity with its potential and weaknesses, she loved helping young people expand their knowledge and perception. She taught different grades, but her favorite was working with the inquisitive minds of 5th graders. During a break from teaching, Kay joined the Air Force and through the mysteries of military technology, bureaucracy and fate, she found herself the only female officer in a missile squadron in California. There she bumped into Tom Willy, who would become her husband of more than 50 years.

She loved gardening and spent her Summers tending to the garden from morning to sundown. A daughter of the South, she lived through and witnessed firsthand the Civil Rights struggles of the late 50's and 60's -- she embraced the progress made and was vigilant against backsliding.

Kay loved travel to new places and meeting new friends in the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Kay and her family opened their home to and sponsored students from abroad, as well as business and diplomatic travelers through various organizations. Especially rewarding to her were the wonderful officers and family members she met through People to People as sponsors of International Officers at Fort Leavenworth. Kay enjoyed being part of community with the Kansas City Swiss Society, People to People, and Leawood Lions.

Kay is survived by husband, Tom, daughter Elyn, son and daughter-in-law Jon and Asli, sister and brother-in-law Judy and Gerry, and newest family member grandson Aren.

Kay's desire to help children improve their chance in life extended beyond the classroom. For over two decades she sponsored multiple children through Children International, a Kansas City based worldwide charity. Those wishing to pay tribute to Kay's life are encouraged to reach out to Children International at: www.children.org. In keeping with her wishes, no service is planned.