Kay Padgett Ray

She was born in Clanton, Alabama on June 2, 1947. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Guy W. Ray, sons, L. Brian Ray, Bradley N. Ray (Danna), Grandchildren, Stone P. Ray, Sawyer K. Ray, and Lilla B. Ray. Sisters, Lynn P. Johnson (Willis), Joyce P. Melton (David) and brother, Morris E. Padgett Jr. (Debbie). She was preceded in death by her parents, Morris E. Padgett Sr., and Lanette L. Padgett.

Kay attended the University of Alabama and was a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. After her marriage in 1967, she lived in Charleston, South Carolina; Selma, Alabama; Biloxi, Mississippi and finally laid her roots in her beloved Birmingham, Alabama. In 1972, using her entrepreneurial spirit, she and her sister Lynn opened The Village Peddler on Reese Street in Homewood.

Growing up with a father who was an accomplished developer and builder, Kay realized her true calling was the real estate business. Kay received her broker’s license in 1976 which marked the start of a 42- year career helping others navigate through the sometimes-challenging buying and selling process. Kay was a long-time member of the Birmingham Association of Realtors. She also served on the board of directors for her local association, as well as the State and National Association of Realtors. Her awards and achievements ranged from Realtor of the Year awards, Birmingham Association of Realtors President, ongoing Honor Society Member, Board President’s Advisory Group, Government and Political Affairs Committee to name a few. Kay connected numerous families and helped them accomplish their lifelong dreams of owning in the Birmingham area, on Lake Martin, and the beautiful beaches of The Gulf Coast.

Her dedication, knowledge and passion in the industry has touched and blessed many generations -past, present, and future. Her success in the real estate business in Alabama will be remembered for many years to come. A highly intelligent, distinguished, and full of energy leader has left very large shoes to fill.

Kay enjoyed her time both at the beach and the lake with her family- which always came first.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at 12 pm at Southern Heritage Funeral Home, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham, AL. Memorial Service to follow at 2pm.

The family asks that if you make donations that they be made to Shelby County Humane Society; 381 McDow Rd, Columbiana, AL 35051.