Kay Louise Hedges

1942 - 2025

Kay Hedges, 83, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, after a long illness. She was lovingly held by her son Albert Jr in her final moments in Boston, MA.

Born and raised in Parma, Idaho, Kay was the daughter of Dorothy Hedges, a high school baker, and James Hedges, a prominent farmer. She was the fourth of six children in her family. Kay was a high school cheer leader, a choral member and an academically minded student. She married her high school sweetheart, Albert Hofeldt of Parma. During their marriage, they lived in various US cities and Germany while Albert served as an Army officer and physician. Kay embraced life abroad as a homemaker, enjoyed the slopes of Austria, the windmills of Norway and the academics of England.

After returning to the states, Kay & family lived in NY for a period and then divorced at which point she resumed her maiden name. She then returned home to Idaho with her children where she continued to build a life centered around learning and family.

Kay had an enduring passion for education and nature. She especially loved birdwatching, gardening and all things knowledge. She could often be found reading bird books, gardening, playing chess or paging through her favorite reference-the encyclopedia-always within reach. Her intelligence, ethics, kind heart, and unwavering devotion to her family defined her life.

Kay is survived by her two children, Albert Hofeldt Jr (PhD) and Marchelle Hofeldt (MD); and four grandchildren: Willem, Albert (III), Mark, and Caroline. Kay also leaves behind two brothers, Richard Hedges and John Hedges, and her sister Greta Cummings. Kay was preceded in death by her parents, sister Joyce Keller and brother Jim Hedges, Jr. She will be laid to rest in Idaho.

Kay's legacy lives on in the lives she formed and touched. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

Mom, thank you for your teachings and for setting our standards, values, ethics and grit. We will miss you dearly and infinitely.