With profound sadness and immense gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved Mary Katheryn “Kay” Henley. On June 17, 2026, Kay was called home to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 80, while at home in St. Louis County, surrounded by her loving family. While their hearts are broken and grieve her absence, they find comfort and peace in knowing that she is now whole, healed, and rejoicing in Heaven. Kay is surrounded by the glory of God and embraced by the Savior she faithfully served throughout her life.
Kay lived her life devoted to God and to the family she cherished so deeply. Her faith was the foundation of everything she did, and she spent her days loving others, encouraging those around her, and pointing people toward Christ through both her words and her actions.
On June 4, 1946, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Kay began a life that would become a blessing to countless people. She was the heart of her family; the one everyone called, the one everyone leaned on, and the one who always knew exactly what to say. Her home, her voice, and her prayers brought comfort to generations of loved ones. To know Kay was to feel loved, welcomed, and cared for.
At the center of her life was the extraordinary love story with her husband of 61 years, Gary Wayne Henley, Sr. Their marriage was a beautiful example of unwavering devotion, commitment, and true partnership. Together they built a family rooted in love, faith, and strong values, creating a legacy that will continue for generations to come.
Kay is survived by her beloved husband, Gary Wayne Henley, Sr.; her children, Gary Wayne Henley Jr. and wife Gretchen Henley, Billy Wade Henley and wife Sharon Henley, and Kimberley Kay Frederick (Henley) and husband Jim Frederick.
She was a proud and loving grandmother to Becky Henley, Heather Roberts and husband Shaun Roberts, Kyle Henley, Jessie Evans and husband Teddy Evans, Jimmy Frederick, and Katie Henley; and step-grandchildren, Sarah Summers, and Danny Busch.
She was also blessed with great-grandchildren whom she adored: Briana Bates, Avery Roberts, Scarlett Bates, Connor Roberts, and Rylee Evans.
Kay is survived by her siblings, Jane LaChance, Vera Clinton and husband Paul Clinton, Sandra Grimm and husband Jim Grimm, Cheryl Andrews and husband Steve Andrews, Gerald Hager and wife Barb Hager, and Connie Wuebbels and husband Dave Wuebbels, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar “Jack” Hager, Lora Mae Hager, and her siblings, Mary Alice Hager, Lora Louise Hager, Beatrice Leona Hager, Jack Franklin Hager, Jerry Ray Hager, and Jimmie Logan Hager.
Kay’s greatest joy was her family. She celebrated every milestone, carried every burden alongside those she loved, and never missed an opportunity to pray for someone in need. Her family was fiercely loved, and they knew without question that they could always count on her. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, strength, and unconditional love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Though our hearts ache in her absence, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and take comfort in knowing that she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Her race is finished, her pain is gone, and her faith has become sight.
Until we meet again, we will carry her love, her wisdom, and her unwavering faith with us. We will miss her every day, but we are forever grateful for the privilege of being loved by her. Her life was a gift, and her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her. As Kay would always say to her family, “You are loved beyond measure.”
Services: Visitation At Kutis South County Chapel 5255 Lemay Ferry Road Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 4-8pm. Service Wednesday, June 24, 10am concludes at funeral home. Interment Poplar Bluff City Cemetery Poplar Bluff, MO 1:30pm.
Gary, Gary, Billy, Kim and the rest of the family, I’m so sorry Kay is gone. She was one of the sweetest and kindest people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. She ranks right there with my Grandma as the the two most beautiful women and souls to ever walk this Earth! My thoughts and love are with you all!
I’m hurting and a little angered that I lost someone special in my life. Prayed so hard for her to stay with us but God decided he wanted her . But maybe Kay was praying for this would end for her and be with Jesus. So there it is. If you knew Kay you knew love..
Deepest sympathy to you and your family. Your mother was a great example for all of us.
Mrs Kay! What can I say. She was a light on the top of the hill in South County. My second mom! Always loved her. I will miss her terribly! She is with our Lord and Savior now! Rest in peace! We love you so much!
As I look at Kay’s Beautiful, Sweet, Tender, Kind & Loving Face, How can I not Smile, in spite of my sadness at our loss? Her Beautiful Smile could always pull a Smile from the Grumpiest of us on our very Worst of Days!
But of Course . . . 💖 Just Look at Her! 💞
Our family is saddened to hear of the passing of q dear friend and former neighbor Kay. A woman of grace and compassion. we could not have had a better anchor of joy in our neighborhood. Our boys grew up with her sons and daughter and loved all of the family. Heaven is rejoicing as we are grieving. She left us with a beautiful memory and fulfilled God’s commandments. Love God and love your neighbor as yourself. Thank you, Kay, for being a light in the darkness. Jacckie Stoll and family.