Kay Roberts

Kay Louise Knippa Roberts died peacefully at home on August 21, 2020 from Lewy-Body Dementia. She was born on February 4, 1942 in Uvalde, to Gary and Lillian Knippa. After moving to Corpus Christi, Kay and her family were active members of Christ Lutheran Church, which was both a spiritual and social hub for her. Kay was a proud member of W.B. Ray High School Class of ’60 Fightin’ Texans; and maintained lifelong friendships that began during the years at Ray. After graduation, Kay attended Texas Lutheran College in Seguin, but her focus on college diminished after she began dating Leon Roberts. In the battle for her heart, TLC didn’t stand a chance. She left college after her freshman year and never looked back. Kay and Leon were married at Christ Lutheran Church on Sept 3, 1961 and lived in Corpus Christi as newlyweds. While living in Corpus Christi, they welcomed their first daughter, Shelley and, after Leon’s work took the family to Beeville, they welcomed their second daughter, Macy.

In 1976, Leon’s job brought the family to Brenham, where Kay began work first at JC Penney, then as an administrative assistant at what began as Muzzy-Pledger and ended many years later as Pledger-Kalkomey. She loved her years with the civil engineering firm, and formed strong friendships with many of her coworkers.

After her retirement, she and Leon continued to travel as often as possible, to as many destinations as possible. She was always available when one of her daughters called - and never hesitated to catch a flight in order to welcome a new grandchild. She was as content traveling the back roads of Texas with Leon, as she was exploring new countries.

She often said that she loved just being in her home - hearing her family laughing and talking all around her. She was witty and sharp, and quick with snappy comebacks. She left a legacy of love and kindness. She is already missed.

She is survived by her husband of almost 59 years, Leon, her daughters Shelley O’Neill and her husband John, of Annapolis, MD; Macy Roberts and Albert Garcia, of Lago Vista; grandchildren Conner O’Neill and his wife Britany, of Kingsland, GA, Carey O’Neill of Hoboken, NJ, and Cullen O’Neill, of Charleston, SC; her brother-in-law, Chuck Lick and his wife, Nancy, her nephew, Brian Lick, and nephews Trey and Rick Whitlock. She was predeceased by her parents, Gary and Lilian Knippa, and her sister, Garilyn Lick.

The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to Raychelle, Lily, Cynthia, Brandy, and all of the other dedicated caregivers who provided loving support and care to Kay throughout the last year.

Visitation hours will be Sunday, August 23 at Memorial Oaks from 9:00am - 7:00pm. Her funeral service will be held on Monday, August 24, 2020 at 10:30am at Christ Lutheran Church, Brenham, with Pastor Mark Groves officiating. A graveside service will follow at Oak Rest Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Christ Lutheran Church.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham, TX 77833.

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