In Loving Memory of Kay Lorraine Knox Hawley

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Kay Lorraine Knox Hawley, who passed away on July 24, 2026, at the age of 91.

Kay was born on May 16, 1935, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Muriel Tingle Knox and Walter Knox. She grew up in Thomaston, Connecticut, where she attended school in nearby Plymouth. In 1951, she moved with her family to Otis, Massachusetts, where she built a life rooted in hard work, family, and community. That same year, she married Richard ("Dick") Hawley Sr. Together they raised a family, and although their marriage did not withstand the test of time, they remained lifelong friends until Dick's passing in 1989—a testament to the mutual respect and care they continued to share.

Kay was a warm, loving woman whose greatest joy was caring for those she loved. Her kindness, strength, and generous heart touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kay was a hardworking, resilient, and independent woman who dedicated her life to serving others. She began her career as a school bus driver, safely transporting generations of children with the care and responsibility for which she was known. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Kay later became an 18-wheel tractor-trailer driver, hauling freight across the United States at a time when few women chose that profession. She took great pride in her work, embracing the freedom of the open road and the opportunity to see the country. Later in life, she found her true calling as a caregiver, compassionately caring for others with the same patience, kindness, and selflessness that defined every aspect of her life. No matter the job, Kay approached it with dedication, strength, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

Above all else, Kay was a devoted mother whose family was the center of her world. She celebrated life's milestones, offered comfort during difficult times, and created lasting memories through family gatherings, holidays, and everyday moments. Her unwavering love, wisdom, and encouragement will remain with her family forever.

Kay found joy in many hobbies. Her crocheted blankets and handmade crafts are treasured by family and friends near and far. She loved gardening and seemed to have a gift for bringing even the most neglected plants back to life with her green thumb. Weekend mornings often found her exploring tag sales in search of hidden treasures and a good bargain. She appreciated the simple pleasures of life, especially time spent with those she loved. No distance was ever too great when one of her children or grandchildren needed her—she would gladly travel far and wide to lend a hand, offer support, or simply share her love. Her hearty laugh, warm smile, and caring nature will be remembered always.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Kay found great comfort and strength in her relationship with God. Especially during the later years of her life, she faithfully participated in Bible studies, where she enjoyed learning, sharing fellowship, and encouraging others. Her faith guided her life and was reflected in the kindness, compassion, and love she extended to everyone around her.

Kay is lovingly survived by her sons, Richard and his wife Debbie, Donald and his wife Patty, Jack and his wife Agnes, Charles, Walter and his wife ML, and Paul Mihlek and his wife Stacy; her daughter, Janice and her partner, Neil; her son-in-law, Brian Hoffman; her former daughter-in-law, Margaret Hawley; her sisters-in-law, Marianne, Pauline, Janice, and Adele; and her cherished grandchildren, Daniel, John, Sheila, Tanya, Christopher, Jennifer, Jack, Robert, Tasha, Marisa, Charlotte, Angela, Jami, Jessica, Jennifer, Gina, TJ, and Mason. She also leaves behind 24 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Kay was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Diane; her daughters-in-law, Laureen Hawley and Susan Schwarz; her brother, Jack Knox; her former husband and lifelong friend, Richard ("Dick") Hawley Sr.; her brothers-in-law, Bruce, Barry, Peter, and Ronald Hawley; her sister-in-law, Zonnie Hawley; her aunt Jessica Fretz; and her parents, Muriel Tingle Knox and Walter Knox.

While our hearts are broken by her passing, we are grateful for the gift of her life and the countless memories she leaves behind. Her legacy of unconditional love, resilience, compassion, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In keeping with Kay's wishes, a private celebration of her life will be held for her family.

She will be remembered not only for the life she lived, but for the love she gave so freely. Her strength, kindness, unwavering faith, and devotion to her family will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Kay will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered with love.