Eleanor Kay Milender

Eleanor “Kay” Milender, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, surrounded by her cherished family. Born on June 6, 1941, in Bremerton, Washington, Kay was the beloved daughter of Edward and Thelma Drake. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Kenneth Drake.

Kay was the proud mother of Michele (Jerry) Enriquez and Michael Milender. Her legacy continues through her six grandchildren: Lola (Mike) Andruzzi, Stephanie (Joe) Sanchez, Courtney (Nacho) Milender Martin, Cecilia (Steven) Lang, Shelby (Cory) Garcia, and Cody Milender. She was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Cru Andruzzi, Cameron Andruzzi, Kaylee Sanchez, Conrad Andruzzi, Ava Sanchez, and Diego Milender Martin, each of whom brought endless joy to her life.

Kay graduated from Barstow High School in 1959, later pursuing higher education to earn her BA in Education, a Teaching Credential, and a Masters in Counseling. Her dedication to education was evident in her nearly 40-year career at Skyline Elementary School, where she served as a beloved elementary school teacher teaching grades 1st through 6th grades. Kay was recognized numerous times as Teacher of the Year, and her influence inspired many of her students to pursue careers in teaching.

A devout Christian, Kay was a long-time attendee of the First Baptist Church in Barstow, California. Upon moving to Alabama, she found a spiritual home at Olive Grove Congregational Methodist Church in Mount Olive, Alabama. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she was an active participant in Bible studies and church activities. Her involvement extended to Delta Kappa Gamma, a society for educators, where she forged lasting friendships and contributed to the community.

Kay found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved working on puzzles, especially crossword puzzles, and expressed her creativity through painting and diamond painting. Her deep faith was nurtured through reading her Bible and devotionals. A woman known for her kindness, helpfulness, and compassion, Kay’s favorite expression, “Oh Well!” encapsulated her light-hearted approach to life’s challenges.

A service to celebrate Kay’s extraordinary life will be held on August 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Olive Grove Congregational Methodist Church, located at 3001 Mount Olive Road, Mount Olive, AL. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Olive Grove CMC, the church that was dear to Kay’s heart.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to UAB for their efforts and care, and to Pastor John and Lisa Cannon for their compassion and guidance during this difficult time. Kay Milender, also known as Aunt Kay or Grandma Kay, will be remembered for her unwavering faith, dedication to education, and the profound love she had for her family and community. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.