Kay J. McGucken

Kay Julia McGucken, long-time Tampa attorney, passed away on July 9, 2024 after a lengthy illness. A proud Tampa native, Kay was born on November 15, 1951, at St. Joseph Hospital to Elizabeth L’Herisson McGucken and Thomas Eugene “Gene” McGucken, a Tampa contractor whose family built many significant Tampa structures including Plant High School, old City Hall and the Bayshore seawall.

Kay attended Christ the King School, Tampa Catholic High School, University of Florida and was a graduate of the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Kay was a member of many civic organizations and was the first president of HAWL, The Hillsborough Association of Women Lawyers.

Kay, with her business partner, Alan Kahana, was instrumental in the revitalization of Ybor City where Kay housed her law office in the historic El Pasaje, the star structure of their many renovation projects.

Kay and her spouse, Carole, enjoyed spending time at their Flagstaff cabin with great-nieces and nephews, Henry Gorton, Reyna Poonawala, Julius Gorton, Kay Poonawala and their parents. Kay also enjoyed spending time with her lovely orchid collection in her Tampa backyard.

Kay is survived by her spouse of 40 years, Carole Miller; brothers Thomas Eugene “Tommy”McGucken (Evelyn), Stephen Hunt McGucken (Ginny); sister Gail Keffer, who put her life on hold to support Kay during her illness; and also survived by many nieces and nephews including Tom McGucken whose regular phone calls and visits provided much support, and Nina McGucken Alvarez, Kay’s niece and law partner.

Kay’s family additionally wishes to express their gratitude to Leesa Boykin for her round-the-clock care, as well as the support of many friends and neighbors including Janine Farver and Bibi Green for their tireless efforts on Kay’s behalf.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, August 3rd from 3-5pm at Blount & Curry Funeral Home- Terrace Oaks Chapel, 12690 56th Street, Temple Terrace 33617.

In lieu of flowers a donation may be given to Metropolitan Ministries or LifePath Hospice.