Kay Craddock Earp

Born on October 25, 1942, in Burlington, North Carolina, Kay was the beloved daughter of George and Clara Waddell, whose love, guidance, and example shaped her into the remarkable woman she would become: an award-winning artist, a devoted servant to others, a woman of deep kindness and compassion, and one whose beauty radiated both inside and out.

Kay graduated simultaneously from Walter Williams Senior High School and Burlington Business College, excelling academically and becoming well-loved at both institutions.

Real estate was not merely Kay's profession—it was her ministry. Over a distinguished career spanning more than forty-five years, she served clients who inevitably became lifelong friends. Her career included positions with Finley Gallery of Homes, Westbrook and Associates, York Properties, where she served as Sales Manager, and ultimately Fonville Morisey Realty, where she concluded her extraordinary career.

Kay's life was marked by service to others. She volunteered with Duke Children's Hospital, participated in local cancer drives, fed the homeless, and gave generously of herself to anyone in need. Whether through her professional life, volunteer work, friendships, or family, Kay made people feel seen, valued, and loved.

An avid and accomplished artist, Kay's paintings reflected the beauty she saw in the world around her. Her creativity, warmth, and grace touched countless lives. Her beautiful paintings became treasured gifts for many of the families she served, adorning the walls of homes she had helped them find.

Above all else, Kay was a devoted mother, a cherished "Nana," and a loyal friend. Most importantly, she loved Jesus Christ with her whole heart and possessed an unshakable faith that sustained her throughout her life. In her later years, Kay found a spiritual home in the Catholic Church, where she embraced its rich liturgy and sacraments with deep joy and conviction. Kay's faith in Christ remained the foundation of her life, bringing her peace, strength, and hope throughout her long battle.

One can only imagine the joy she experienced when she was welcomed home by the Savior she loved so dearly.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to those who loved and cared for Kay during her final years, including the staff of Swift Creek Health Center, Avendelle of Shepherd's Vineyard, and Transitions LifeCare, whose compassion and kindness brought comfort to both Kay and her family. The extraordinary ministers and staff at St. Michael's were truly the hands and feet of Christ, bringing Kay the Sacrament and praying with and for her up to the end. "Thank you" truly isn't enough.

A Memorial Mass celebrating Kay's life will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church, 804 High House Rd, Cary, North Carolina. Interment will follow immediately in the St. Michael's Columbarium.

Kay loved flowers, but for those who wish to honor her memory through a memorial contribution, donations may be made to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Transitions LifeCare, or Best Friend's Pet Adoption.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh is serving the Earp family,