Teddy Kay

Teddy Kay went home to be with the Lord on September 10, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family and loved ones. Ted was born on August 9, 1948, to the late Cletus and Luticha (Niesen) Kay in Ironton, Missouri.

Ted married the love of his life, Leora J Weatherington, on March 23, 1968, at Cross Roads First Church of God.

His greatest love was God and his faith. He was a faithful servant showing kindness, compassion, and love to those around him. His faith was not simply something he spoke about, it was the foundation upon which he built his life. He adored his wife and treasured the life they shared together on their farm. His family was his pride, but there was a special place in his heart for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Their smiles, laughter, visits, sports activities and time spent together brought him immeasurable happiness. He loved watching them grow and was always proud of the people they were becoming. The memories and lessons he leaves with them will continue to live on for generations.

Ted was a country man at heart, loved his farm and found peace and purpose in working the land and caring for his cattle. He was happiest outdoors, enjoyed deer hunting, turkey hunting and fishing while creating countless memories in the woods and enjoying the beauty and quiet of God’s creation.

Ted was a hard-working man who worked at Pilot Knob Pellet Company and then at Daimler Chrysler where he retired after twenty-five years. He believed in helping others, doing what needed to be done, and he never sought recognition for the good he did. He simply lived his life with a willing heart and a helping hand.

Ted is survived by his wife, Leora, his son, Daniel Wayne (Laurinda) Kay and his daughter, Melissa Lee (Chris) Callaway; grandchildren, Emilee (Jake) Hinkle, Hunter (Peggy) Kay, Ty Callaway, and Sam Callaway; great grandchildren, Eleanor and Hadlee Hinkle and Magdalene and Amos Kay. Ted is also survived by his sister, Thelma Williams and numerous other family members, friends and loved ones. Ted was preceded in death by his brothers, Jay, Jerry and Larry and grandson, Zachary Callaway.

Though his family will deeply miss his presence, his stories, his laughter, his wisdom and his love, they find comfort knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he loved so dearly. Ted’s life was a blessing, his memory a treasure and his faith a legacy. Ted’s earthly work is finished, but his love, his example, and his faith will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

There will be a visitation at Cozean Memorial Chapel on Sunday evening, September 13, 2026, from 5 – 8 p.m. Visitation will resume on Monday, September 14 at Cross Roads First Church of God near Libertyville beginning at 10 a.m. followed by the funeral at 11 a.m. with Pastor Roger Hogan officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Libertyville Christian Cemetery. Memorials, if desired, may be made to Serenity Hospice Care in care of the funeral home. View the tribute video and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.