Kay Monroe Smith, 83, died on Aug. 2, 2025. Devout in faith, keen in intellect and generous in love, she was a scholar and advocate for innovative and rich elementary education for all and particularly for disenfranchised youth.
Born in Racine, Wisconsin, she moved to the Chicago area in 1963 to study education at Concordia University, then earned a master’s degree from Northwestern University and a Doctor of Philosophy from Loyola University, where she later served on the faculty of the School of Education. Fiercely dedicated to her study and to her support of new teachers, it was her sons with whom she was most fascinated.
Kay was preceded in death by Robert N. Smith, her husband of 48 years, and she is survived by her sons, Christian (Sandra Shimon) and Garrett (Charity Haines); her grandchildren, Emma and Lucy; and lifelong friends, colleagues and students from all parts of her lived experience.
To honor Kay’s life, a visitation was held on Aug. 8, followed by a funeral service at Grace Lutheran Church, 7300 Division, River Forest, where Kay was a member. Private entombment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations in Kay’s name to any charity that promotes and preserves equal rights for all.