CASTLE HAYNE — Kay West, 68, of Castle Hayne, North Carolina, passed away on April 20, 2025. Born on December 26, 1956, in Florence, South Carolina, Kay lived a life filled with compassion, devotion to family, and a deep commitment to caring for others.
A proud graduate of Hoggard High School’s Class of 1975, Kay pursued her passion for healthcare by earning her associate’s degree in nursing from Cape Fear Community College in 1993. Her career at New Hanover Regional Medical Center spanned multiple roles—including phlebotomist and scope cleaner—but she found her true calling as a registered nurse. Caring for others wasn’t just a job for Kay; it was her purpose.
Kay shared 49 joyful years of marriage with Zeb West. Together they raised two daughters—Ashley (Mikey) of Texas and Courtney of Castle Hayne—and built a vibrant family life centered around love and laughter. She embraced her role as Nana with open arms, delighting in the lives of her grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Hailey, Talan, and Gideon; great-grandchildren: Emberly and Rayden; and eagerly anticipating the arrival of a third great-grandchild.
Long before becoming Nana Kay, she was lovingly known as Aunt Kay to her brother Arden Drose’s (Lisa) children, Alex and Evan. Her nurturing nature knew no bounds—she even bought a Toyota Sienna van dubbed the “Nana mobile” to chauffeur her grandchildren on adventures.
Kay had an adventurous spirit, enjoying cruises with Zeb, deer hunting, football games, NASCAR races, listening to 60’s music, and line dancing. A woman of steadfast faith, she was an active member of Wrightsboro Baptist Church where she participated in the Living Cross production, helped with Wednesday night suppers, and loved her ladies Sunday School class.
She was preceded in death by her parents Pete and Mac Drose and grandson McKay.
A memorial service celebrating Kay’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Andrews Mortuary Market Street Chapel, 1617 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28401. Prior to the service, at the funeral home, the family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the service hour.
Her legacy of love continues to shine brightly through all who knew her.
