Kay Sawyer Shaughnessy

Kay Shaughnessy, a member of her community and a true example of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. She was born on February 1, 1948, in Alma, Georgia, and brought joy and light to those around her for 77 wonderful years.

Kay's life was one of dedication and devotion—both to her beloved family and to the businesses she built from the ground up. She is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Rick Shaughnessy, and their beautiful family, including daughters TC Phillips (Neal) and Theresa Shaughnessy, sons Richard, Michael, and Leonard (Lori) Shaughnessy, and her beloved grandchildren Colby and Bailey Wright, Madison and Jon Alan Phillips, Brittany Gibson, Jonathan Meredith, Brandon Hanners, Madison Hanners, Joshua Wyer, Sarah Wyer-Gomez, Michael Phillip Shaughnessy, and Lillian Shaughnessy. Kay's brother, Col. Alec Sawyer and sister, Sarah Sawyer, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren, will hold her memory close to their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sandy A. Sawyer and Margaret Sawyer, her son, Charles Alan Wright, and her sister, Sandra S. Rich.

In 1985, Kay founded Kay’s Interiors, a provider of fine drapes and shutters that showcased her exceptional taste. Her entrepreneurial spirit drove the company's success and made it a well-known local establishment. Kay's presence in Dothan was marked by her unwavering commitment to her work and the people she served. Her reputation extended beyond her business as she became known for her kindness, her engaging smile, and her willingness to go above and beyond to help others.

Family was the cornerstone of Kay's life. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt. Her home was filled with warmth and affection, where laughter was shared, and memories were made. Kay's love extended to her feline companions, who were never far from her side. Her gentle nature made her easy to love, and her kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

An avid motorcyclist, Kay relished the freedom of the open road, particularly when she rode her Harley Davidson. Her adventurous spirit was matched by her strength and resilience, especially during her courageous battle with breast cancer—a fight she approached with the same grace and fortitude that characterized her entire life.

A celebration of Kay’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 11am in the Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home with her brother Alec Sawyer officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, June 24, from 5pm until 7pm. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in the Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.