Kay R. Hesselbach

Kay R. Hesselbach, 84, passed away Sunday, October 10, 2021 at The Courtyards Senior Living Center in Knoxville, TN.

Kay was born in Elmira, New York, to Karl and ClaraReazor. She graduated from Southside High School in Elmira, New York in 1955.  Kay earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary Education from Elmira University, and shortly afterwards earned a master’s degree in education from The University Of Alabama. Later Kay earned a second masters degree in Library Of Science at the State University Of New York at Geneseo. During her undergraduate studies she reunited with a high school classmate, Carl Hesselbach, and they married in 1960.

Kay worked as an elementary teacher in Tuscaloosa, AL and then later in Penfield, NY.  She also was the head librarian at St Joseph’s School in Penfield for several years. In 1982, Kay and Carl entered into a partnership with another couple in Watts Bar, Tennessee.  They owned and operated Watts Bar Resort for nineteen years, selling the business and retiring in Spring City, Tennessee in 2001.  During her retirement, Kay served as a volunteer at The Daily Bread, the Spring City History Museum, and the Tennessee Valley Theater.

Kay and Carl became members of Spring City United Methodist Church shortly after arriving in Tennessee.  During their time there, Kay served as chairman of the Pastor Parish Relation Committee for several years, was a member of the choir, was a member of the United Methodist Womens organization, and led of The New Generation Sunday School Class.  She enjoyed reading, knitting & sewing, playing the piano & the organ, playing cards, Crimson Tide football, and her church family at Spring City United Methodist Church.  

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, husband Carl, and daughter Carolyn Hesselbach.

Survivors include her son Carl (Teresa) Hesselbach of Knoxville, nephew Kenneth (Renee) Hesselbach and nieces Deborah (Chris) Patchin and Krista (Dave) Pryune.

Receiving of friends will be held Thursday, October 21, 2021 from 4:00 to 6:00, immediately followed by a Celebration Of Life Service, at Vaughn Funeral Home in Spring City with Rev. Dale Wyrick officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Spring City United Methodist Church, the Animal Shelter Alliance of Rhea, or a charity of your choice.

Vaughn Funeral Home, Spring City is in charge of arrangements. Please share your condolences and memories of Kay on our website www.vaughn-funeral-home.com