Sheila Kay Stearns

Kay Stearns (née Shelia Kay Allen), 73, of Lantana, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026. Born and raised in West Virginia, Kay relocated to her beloved sunny Florida in 1989, where she embraced the coastal lifestyle and shared her West Virginia hospitality. She was a dedicated professional who spent over 40 years working as a legal assistant, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues. Outside of work, Kay lived life to the fullest. She adored her family and friends, the beach, swimming, fishing, music, and loved to dance the night away. She was an avid reader and loved animals. She showered affection on her cherished dogs, Zoey, Taz, and Bri. Known for her vibrant, warm spirit, Kay never met a stranger, and everyone truly loved being around her. Kay was preceded in death by her father, James Allen; her mother, Geraldine Allen; her brother, Jeff; and her sister, Greta. She is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband, Richard "Rick" Stearns; her daughter, Kristi Kirk and her husband, Jay; her three granddaughters, Jordan, Sara, and Shaidyn; and her great-grandson, Orion. In accordance with Kay’s wishes, no formal funeral or memorial services will be held. Her family will celebrate her life privately, remembering the warmth and joy she brought to everyone she knew.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations in her name be made to Big Dog Ranch Rescue (https://www.bdrr.org/donate) to honor Kay's lifelong love for animals.