Obituaries

Audrey Kay Wayland, age 89, passed away peacefully on January 29, in her longtime home in Lakeside Park, Kentucky, surrounded by her sisters and loving family who stood faithfully by her side and cared for her in her final days. She was born on July 30, 1936, in Pendleton County, Kentucky, to Edna Harrison Massey and Albert Massey. Audrey was the oldest of eight children, a role she embraced throughout her life as a steady source of guidance, love, and wisdom.

Audrey was a graduate of Hebron High School in Hebron, Kentucky, where she was part of the school’s final graduating class. She pursued higher education at Berea College, Xavier University, Thomas More College, and Northern Kentucky University. She dedicated her life to education, serving as a teacher at Saint Pius and Blessed Sacrament, and later at Twenhofel, where she retired as Dean of Students after 34 years of combined service in education. Her love for children defined her life’s work and her personal calling. Long before she became a teacher, Audrey showed that devotion in action—as a young teenager, she bravely rescued two children from a house fire, an act of courage that reflected the selflessness and strength she carried throughout her life.

She was a longtime member of Blessed Sacrament Church in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, where her faith guided her service to others. Audrey was also honored as a Kentucky Colonel, recognizing her lifelong dedication to service and her positive impact on those around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William “Pee Wee” Wayland; her stepson, William “Billy” (Linda) Wayland; her sister, Carolyn Rose Deck; her brother, Albert Wallace Massey; her brothers-in-law, James Ray Deck, Jim Nienaber, Bob Harrison, Don Dale, Tom Abdon, and Doug Boggs; and her sister-in-law, Sue Massey.

Audrey is survived by James Albert (Michelle) Deck, who was like a son to her; her sisters, Alice Faye Nienaber, Helen Harrison, Barbara Massey Dale, Sue Abdon, and Jan Boggs; her brother by choice, Donnie Hodges; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Audrey was the heart of her family—often described as the one who knew everyone and kept everyone connected. It was rare to go anywhere with Audrey without being stopped by someone who recognized her. She truly never met a stranger, and her tenacity and love of life left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She delighted in sharing stories and memories that brought joy to those around her.

She cherished time spent with family, attending basketball games, traveling to visit loved ones, and making special trips to Florida, Indiana, Washington, D.C., and Ireland. In her free time, Audrey enjoyed watching Kentucky Wildcats basketball, and when the Cats were not playing, she could often be found watching another NCAA game. She was also known for her acts of service—visiting friends, caring for those who were sick or in need, and actively supporting charitable causes. Another favorite pastime was traveling on Greyhound bus tours across the country, where she created treasured memories and lifelong friendships.

Visitation will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church, 2409 Dixie Hwy, Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, on Saturday, February 7, beginning at 8:00 a.m., with the funeral service to follow at 10:00 a.m.

Immediately following the service, a procession will proceed to Hopeful Lutheran Cemetery, located at 6430 Hopeful Road in Florence, Kentucky, for burial.

A family luncheon will be held following the burial at Petersburg Baptist Church in Petersburg, Kentucky, with the church graciously providing the meal.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in person at services or online to the Salvation Army or the St. Elizabeth Auxiliary.

Audrey Kay Wayland will be remembered for her devotion to education, her tenacity, her generosity, and her unwavering devotion to her family. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched.