Kay Boyd

Kay Lilya Boyd, 86, of Rockford, passed away on December 12, 2020 in her home surrounded by her family. She was born on December 7, 1934 in Moline, IL; daughter of Abner and Bernice (Hannah) Johnson. She met her husband John W. Boyd II on a blind date while attending nursing school at the Milwaukee County School of Nursing. Following graduation she worked as a nurse in the post-op recovery unit.
During their 64 year marriage, Kay and John enjoyed traveling overseas and across our beautiful country. They shared a passion for nature, wildlife, history, friends, visiting cousins, nieces, nephews and any activities that centered on their family. Through the years, they were active members at Spring Creek Congregational Church, Pilgrim United Church of Christ and most recently Heartland Community Church.
She was also a long time member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood that promoted educational opportunities and relationships with other dynamic, multi-talented women. Kay volunteered at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center as a Pink Lady, Rockford Public Schools reading to children, and was the unofficial “in-house nurse” at the Harbour Royale Condominiums. She was warm and welcoming to all who entered her home, greeting them with her brilliant smile. She loved cooking for her family and friends while they gathered around the dining room table. Kay was always ready to engage in light banter or to solve some of the world’s problems.
She was a most coveted host for her grandson’s sport’s team dinners and became a beloved surrogate grandma to many. Kay was a natural cheerleader who eagerly followed her grandchildren’s activities no matter the miles. An animal lover by nature, she always looked forward to babysitting the menagerie of pets owned by her children and grandchildren. She was energized by people and enjoyed catching up on the telephone, mentoring young people or talking at the lot-line with the neighbors. She loved board games, cards, outdoor activities, a brisk walk, snowmobiling and life at Lake Winnebago.  When asked to describe herself Kay would say; “I’m just am ordinary woman, nothing special and yet I’ve been so blessed.” We did not fully agree with her assessment. We saw an extraordinary woman who lived her life with intention, grace, a servant’s heart, and focused on others. She was especially devoted to her husband and family, putting them first in every thought or action. She loved fiercely; was always encouraging, determined, hardworking, ready to pitch in when needed and generous with her time and talents. Even as she was approaching death, she chose grace and acceptance, trusting God’s plan. Although Kay is already missed, she will live on in all those she has imprinted during her life’s journey. Rest easy Kay, you have lived a life of meaning and with purpose... well done.
Survivors include her husband John; children John W. (Deniz) Boyd III and Jane (Joe) Steffen; grandchildren Amanda Boyd, Nichole (Mat) Szula, Alexandra (Connor) Brown, Zac Steffen, and “adopted” granddaughter Alexis Bennett; great-grandchildren Zoe Szula, Rowan Brown and Ella Szula; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She is predeceased by her parents, brother Bob (Mina) Johnson, brother-in-law Jim Boyd, sister-in-law Vivian (Clarence) Pletzke, nephews Howard and Marvin Pletzke .
The family would like to express its deep appreciation to the doctors and staff at SwedishAmerican Hospital, Northern Illinois Hospice and Visiting Angels for providing professional, kind and compassionate care to our mother and family in our time of need. You truly made a difference!  Due to the current pandemic, the family is choosing to wait to do a Celebration of Life at a later date. Kay encourages legacies in recognition of her life be provided directly to either the P.E.O. Scholars Awards Fund via donation.peointenational.org or the Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St., Rockford, IL 61102. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 712 Windsor Rd., Loves Park.
www.statelinecremations.com .