Kay Frances Westbrook, a cherished matriarch and friend, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2024, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 85. Born on October 3, 1939, in Peoria, Illinois, to the late Doug and Fran (Lick) Dabney,
Her professional journey began at Supervalu Transportation, where she dedicated many years before transitioning to a fulfilling career as a sales manager for Lovelace Trucking. Kay’s work ethic and leadership were admired by her colleagues, and she left an indelible mark on the industry until her well-deserved retirement.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kay’s life was defined by her unwavering Christian faith. She found strength and solace in her beliefs, and her actions reflected the love and grace that she found in her spirituality. Friends and family were Kay’s greatest treasures.
Kay’s legacy lives on through her loving children, Cindy Reeder and her husband Randy of Webb City, Missouri, Doug Westbrook and his wife Brenda of Carthage, Missouri, and Dustin Westbrook and his wife Ruth of Morton, Illinois. Her memory will be cherished by her several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will continue to be guided by the wisdom and love she imparted on them.
While Kay rejoins her beloved parents, her daughter Lori Kay Westbrook, and her brother Don Dabney in eternal rest, the void left by her departure is filled with countless joyful memories and lessons learned.
Kay’s zest for life was evident in her hobbies. She was a formidable card player, enjoying spirited games with her friends every Saturday night. The clatter of dominoes was a familiar sound in her home, where she would often be found playing and laughing with those she held dear. These simple joys were the cornerstones of a life well-lived, one filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Those who knew Kay will remember her as the embodiment of love, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Her legacy is not just in her achievements, but in the kindness, she showed, the comfort she provided, and the love she shared.
A celebration of life will be held from 11 am to 1 pm Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Faith Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.
