Kay Azlin

Brenda Kay Willard Azlin, affectionately known as Kay, entered into eternal rest on October 23, 2024, at her home in Etta, MS. Born on February 15, 1946, in New Albany, she was a beacon of love and passion, touching the lives of all who knew her. Kay's journey through life was marked by devotion to her family, her career, and her community, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and dedication.
Kay was the beloved wife for almost fifty-seven years of Rayburn Wayne Azlin, with whom she shared a life full of love and mutual respect. She was a nurturing mother to her daughter, Terri Pounders (Dustin), and a guiding light to her seven grandchildren, who will miss her dearly. Her sisters, Carol Tate (Ray) and Neva Grant, along with her brother, Terry Willard, and sister Patsy Willard, will fondly remember Kay's loving nature and thoughtful gestures. She was preceded in death by her cherished son, Anthony Wayne Azlin; her parents, Orvin Byron Willard and IC Taylor Willard; her siblings, Metra Walters, Lane Nutt, Helen Melton, O.B. Willard, and James Richard Willard; and her treasured grandson, Matthew Carson Pounders.
Kay's academic achievements were notable, as she earned a Master's Degree in Education, which she put to use in her 29-year tenure as a school teacher at West Union Attendance Center. Her commitment to education and the growth of her students was evident in her tireless efforts and the positive impact she had on countless young lives.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kay was a woman of many interests. She found solace and joy in gardening and yard work, creating a haven of beauty around her home. Her hands were rarely still, as she also enjoyed quilting, crafting intricate designs that will serve as cherished heirlooms for generations to come. Kay's love for raising chickens brought a sense of rustic charm and simplicity to her family's daily life.
A devout member of Philadelphia Baptist Church, Kay's faith was a cornerstone of her existence. She lifted her voice in song as a member of the choir and shared her wisdom in the Heart to Heart Sunday School Class. Her spiritual devotion was a testament to her belief in kindness and service to others.
Those who knew Kay would describe her as loving, thoughtful, and passionate. She approached every aspect of life with a heart full of love and a spirit that sought to uplift others. Her thoughtfulness was evident in the way she remembered the small details that mattered to those around her, and her passion was seen in her unwavering dedication to her family, her students, and her faith.
As we bid farewell to Kay, we celebrate the life of a woman who was the embodiment of love and caring. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy will continue to inspire. Kay's life was a testament to the beauty that can be found in simplicity, the strength in kindness, and the power of a life lived with passion.
A visitation will be held at Philadelphia Baptist Church on Friday, October 25, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. The service will begin at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Bobby Irwin officiating. Burial will be in Philadelphia Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Brian Willard, Mark Willard, Michael Tate, Daniel Melton, Nathan Pounders, Justin Willard, Austin Azlin, Jackson Pounders, Isaiah Bowen and Jeremy Bowen.
United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.