Kay Lynn Smith

Kay Lynn (Morgan) Smith, 86, formerly of Torrington, WY, passed away peacefully in Sterling, CO, on November 15, 2023, and now dances among angels in Heaven. She was born February 1, 1937, in Lusk, WY to Paul and Betty (Webb) Morgan, the first of 3 daughters born into this union. Kay grew up on a farm, worked at the local soda fountain as a teenager, graduated high school in 1955 and married Bill Smith that same year. They made their home in Lusk and had three sons; Brett, Dave and Bruce. Eventually, Bill and Kay bought the Covered Wagon Motel in Lusk where she managed the business and three rambunctious boys, along with lots of their friends who thought of the motel as a second home. After the boys graduated high school, they moved to Cheyenne. They divorced in 1986.

Kay then moved to Fort Collins, CO where she became a travel agent and had a successful banking career. After retiring she moved to Torrington, WY to be closer to family members and friends she helped care for. She enjoyed traveling, time spent with grandchildren and playing cards with friends who lived in neighboring communities. After suffering several strokes, she was lovingly cared for at Goshen Healthcare Community in Torrington, WY and Devonshire Acres in Sterling, CO. Her humor and positive attitude never left her, and she was adored by her caregivers.

She commented recently that she was blessed to grow up in a small Wyoming town and never thought she would travel the world like she was able to do. Traveling to places like Alaska, Panama Canal, Israel, Europe, Spain, Moracco, and other destinations gave her such joy.

Her greatest achievement in life was her family and she relished hosting family events, especially “Smithmas”, a time during the holidays when everyone came to her house for food, games, laughter, photos, gifts and making memories. She was a lifelong caregiver, always addressing others' needs and wants before her own. She was selfless in the gift of her time and talents. She had quick humor and a mischievous side that made her even more endearing.

She is survived by her sons Dave (Julie) and Bruce (Pam); daughter-in-law Eliana; grandchildren Adam (Brandee), Megan, Alyssa (Dustin), Tori (Jeremiah), Landon, Rivkah (Akiva), Brent (Alicia) and Bradley; 9 great-grandchildren; sisters Sandra (Fletcher) and Bonnie; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, son Brett (aka Baruch), grandson Sean and brother-in-law Duane.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10am, November 22, 2023, at Pier Funeral Home in Lusk, WY, followed by a reception at the Elks Lodge. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Niobrara Senior Center, 611 E 7th St., Lusk, WY 82225.

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