Laurel Ellen McKay "Lolly"

Passed peacefully on Jan. 20, 2024 due to complications from a fall and subsequently contracting Covid.

Born 1948 to Roy and Juanita (nee Humphrey) McKay, Laurel was a lifelong resident of Joliet having graduated from Joliet East high school and Illinois State University. She enriched the lives of students with intellectual disabilities as a teacher for 35 years at Marycrest Elementary and Lynne Thigpen Elementary, and was recognized as the Exceptional Educator of the year 1980 in Joliet School District. In addition, she was an active Christian educator, teaching bible school, singing in the choir and serving as deacon at First Baptist Church of Joliet and Judson Baptist Church for many years.

Laurel made many lifelong friends whom she considered her extended family. While she never married, she loved singing at the weddings of friends, and celebrating all of life's joyous events with her 'extended family.'

Gifted with a talent for public speaking, Laurel eloquently eulogized those who preceded her in death, including her parents and some of her dear friends. She is survived by her brother, Doug (Diana) McKay of Nevada, her nephew Mason McKay and niece Kara McKay (Waylon Rowley) all of Utah, as well as her extended family of friends.

Lolly will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her loving and beautifully worded impromptu prayers, and her faith and fellowship. The family wishes to thank Lightways Hospice for their care, her TOTTs friends for a lifetime of laughs, with special thanks to Marcia and Bud Stilwell, Bob and Bette Polletta, and Bruce Valade for their love and support in Laurel's senior years.

A private internment of ashes will be conducted at Elmhurst Cemetery, but a celebration of life is being planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Ark to support citizens with intellectual disabilities, Judson Church-Children's Ministry 2800 Black Rd. Joliet, IL 60435 or to Lightways Hospice.