Kay M. Williamson's Obituary
Kay M. Williamson passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 68 on December 24th, 2023, with her partner and friends by her side. This followed a courageous battle with sarcoma, a rare form of cancer.
Kay was born on June 24, 1955, in Leicester England, the eldest daughter of Joy and Owen Williamson. Kay is survived by her partner, Sandy Stroot, her mother Joy, her brothers Paul (Alison), and Ian (Julie), her sister June (Andy), her aunt Janet, and her nieces, nephews and cousins whom she adored. She is predeceased by her father Owen (Jean) and her stepfather Derek.
Kay was a born educator and knew she wanted to teach from a very young age. She valued education and earned her bachelor in education degree from the University of Wales, Cardiff, South Wales, UK. She taught Physical Education in England and Health Education in Nigeria before coming to Canada for her Master of Arts degree from the University of Victoria, BC. She then went to the United States for her Doctorate in Education from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Kay was an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago from 1988 to 1994, where she prepared preservice teachers and graduate students pursuing their undergraduate and doctoral degrees in physical education.
Kay then changed careers, earning her Certified Financial Planning certificate, to become a financial advisor for Ameriprise Financial Services in Columbus, OH from 1994 – 2021. Her background in education provided the foundation for her career as a financial advisor, where she helped clients understand their financial situation so they could make informed decisions to pursue their financial goals.
Kay lived life to the fullest. She loved to travel and went to many places across the world. Walking on the beach and watching the sun rise over the ocean were favorite activities for Kay. She was also an avid birdwatcher and delighted in sharing her knowledge and love of birds. She engaged in outdoor activities whenever possible, and loved sports, particularly tennis, golf and pickleball. What Kay loved most, however, was sharing time and creating memories with her many friends and family. She always looked forward to these special times and welcomed everyone with a bright smile and a warm hug.
Kay has requested no formal funeral service and asked that her friends and family celebrate the memories they shared, remembering the good times they had together. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kay’s name may be made by clicking on any one of the following links: James Sarcoma Fund #314857. Ohio Health Hospice, or the National Audubon Society.
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