Kay Willis Filyaw, a longtime resident of Hoquiam, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2024, at Grays Harbor Health and Rehabilitation in Aberdeen, Wahington. She was 91.
Kay was born May 15, 1933, on a farm in Hawkins County, Tennessee to George Q. and E. Elizabeth (Hurd) Willis. She and Thurman Ross “T R.” Filyaw were married December 29, 1951, in Bethel Presbyterian Church, Kingsport, Tennessee. They were married a few days short of 57 years when he passed in December 2008.
Kay graduated from high school before her 16th birthday, then attended East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee. She moved from Tennessee to Washington State in November 1954, lived in Aberdeen briefly, then moved to Hoquiam where she resided ever since.
After moving to Washington Kay attended Grays Harbor Business College in Aberdeen. While still a student there, she began her employment with the Federal Government in the Bureau of Indian Affairs Branch of Forestry in Hoquiam. She retired in 1994 after 40 years of service.
Kay loved her family beyond measure and made extra effort to do special things for them. She cherished life and strived to overcome numerous health issues that she faced. She was very active in researching ancestry and spent countless hours helping numerous others trace their family history. She had been a member of Genealogical and Historical Societies in Tennessee and Virginia for many years. She was also an avid Seahawks and Mariners fan and enjoyed watching other sports as well.
Kay is survived by son, Michael (Susan) of Olympia, Washington, grandson Tanner (Alana) and great-granddaughter Luna of Rutland, Ohio, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband “T. R.”, and 11 siblings. She had faith that she would join her husband and other loved ones in Heaven.
Memorials in Kay’s honor are suggested to any Grays Harbor Relay for Life team or charity of choice. Kay’s wish was that no funeral nor memorial service be held, and her family has honored her request.
Please take a few moments to record your thoughts for the family by signing the online register at www.colemanmortuary.net.
Cremation by Coleman Mortuary.
