Kay Frances Crowe (Byrd)
Friday, October 24th, 1947 - Sunday, October 29th, 2023

With warm hearts and deep appreciation, we celebrate the life of Kay Francis Byrd Atchley Crowe, who gracefully passed away at the age of 76 on Sunday, October 29, while under the loving care of Hospice of the Carolina Foothills. A proud native of Rutherford County, North Carolina, Kay was born to her parents, the late Ray Edgar Byrd and Ruby Ethel Harris Byrd.

In addition to her parents, she joins her late husbands, Glenn Atchley and Larry Crowe, as well as her dear brother, James Preston Byrd, and sister, Linda Byrd Earley, in the embrace of eternity.

Kay's life was a tapestry woven with unwavering dedication to her two greatest passions: nursing and family. Her journey of education led her to attain her RN from Western Piedmont Community College, and she later earned her BSN from UNC Charlotte, illuminating her profound commitment to her noble profession. As a nurse, her compassion and devotion etched a lasting legacy, offering comfort and hope to countless lives she touched.

In addition to her esteemed nursing career, Kay embraced the boundless joys of family life. A loving mother to her cherished children, Connie Shytle (husband Jeff), Kim Wheat (husband Steve), and Melissa Atchley, she reveled in the joys of their presence. Her family circle expanded to include dear grandchildren: Zachary Shytle (wife Jasmine Shytle), Sarah Russell (husband Garrett Russell), Michael Wheat (wife Riley Wheat), Savannah Wheat, Tricia Wheat, and Clarissa Gordon. Kay's joy extended to great-grandchildren, each a precious gem in her life's treasure, including Rowan Russell, Isabella Wheat, Mayson Wheat, Jase Hoppes, Jenson Gordon, Emma Gordon, and Zella Gordon.

Kay's influence extended beyond her immediate family, touching the hearts of many others including Jimmy Byrd and his wife, Karen, Jeff Early and his wife, Patricia, niece Donna White, brother-in-law Don Earley. Together, they fondly reminisce about the cherished moments shared with Kay, memories that will endure as a testament to her enduring love.
We also remember Peaches, Kay's loyal canine companion, who offered companionship and brought boundless happiness to her life.

Kay was an active and devoted member of Southern Baptist Church, a community where her faith found a home and where she shared in the warmth and support of fellow members.

As we celebrate the radiant legacy of Kay Crowe, we draw inspiration from her unwavering dedication to both her family, the nursing profession, and her faith. Her legacy shines brightly through her boundless compassion, her steadfast commitment to those in her care, and the warmth and love she generously shared with family and friends.

A service to commemorate Kay's vibrant life will take place on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 3:00 PM at Southern Baptist Church, a place dear to her heart. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Reverend Peter Surran and Dr. James Byrd are honored to officiate. Following the service, Kay will find her peaceful rest in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Southern Baptist Church at 140 Church St, Rutherfordton, NC 28139, in honor of Kay's memory.
Kay Crowe's memory will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts. She will be deeply missed, and her spirit and love will continue to resonate within us, inspiring us to embrace life's joys, offer our compassion to others, and remain steadfast in our faith, just as she did throughout her remarkable journey.

Crowe's Mortuary is honored to be entrusted with the care of Kay Crowe and her family.