Kear Lay

Kear Lay was a beloved grandmother, mother, sister, aunt, and friend to those that were fortunate to have known her. She will be survived through her 11 children, their spouses, and reuniting with 1 predeceased daughter: Hak Chhan (Long Heng Chhun), Khim Tek (Nay Tek), Pun Tek (Socheat Ho), Nat Chhan, Sue Duong (Sambok Duong), Khim Leang Tek, Youty Tek, Siv Houng Kung, Mardy Tek Ky (Nach Ky), Chandy Leber (Eric Leber), Sody Doros (Craig Doros) and Dany Tek (Ramony Chin). She will also be dearly missed by her 25 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and other family members and friends.

Kear Lay was born on June 5th, 1929 in Battambong, Cambodia. In the late 1970’s, Cambodia was going through a genocide at the hands of the Khmer Rouge. Through tremendous perseverance, Kear Lay along with her late Husband Chhan Khy and their 12 children were able to escape Cambodia.

She would go on to live an amazing life here in the United States. Kear Lay was able to see all of her children grow up as Americans, get married and eventually have children of their own. She enjoyed tending to her garden, spending time taking care of her grandchildren, and venturing into several successful business endeavors throughout her life. Kear Lay was best known locally as “The Dessert Grandma” for her incredible Cambodian desserts that were sold at restaurants and grocery stores throughout Northern Virginia.

Kear Lay devoted the later part of her life to civic duties within several communities. She will be remembered as a bright shining light in those communities that she served.