Memorial Service
First Baptist Church of Boerne
Boerne, TX
Friday, October 29, 2021
2:00 PM

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Kay Espy Thornton

of Boerne, TX

April 2, 1936 - October 22, 2021


  • Obituary
  • Guestbook
Kay was welcomed into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 22, 2021, after a life well spent in devotion to Him. Kay was the only child of Craig and Margaret Espy. She leaves a family which includes her husband of 64 years, Johnny, daughter Claire Kreifels (Danny) and son Robert (Joanne) of Boerne, son Craig (Ashley) of Waco and son Andy of San Antonio. Kay had five grandchildren, Kendra Vita, Jake Kreifels, Emily Rawls, Lincoln Kreifels and Nick Thornton, all of whom adored their Nonnie. She also had thirteen great grans who loved her dearly.

Kay was a graduate of Central High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma ('53) and of Oklahoma State ('57) following two years at Baylor University. Her career featured teaching public school for 2 years in San Antonio, raising 4 exceptional kids, all of whom have made their mark, and a 16-year stint with Bible Study Fellowship International as Director of Class Administrators. While with BSF, Kay was honored to travel extensively domestically and globally for leadership training and retreats. She recognized the privilege of her service, was respected and loved by those with whom she worked and was seemingly everyone's best friend.

Services will be held at First Baptist Church, Boerne, with Pastor John Wheat of Trinity Baptist Kerrville and Pastor Bubba Stahl of First Baptist Fredericksburg officiating. The memorial service will be Friday, October 29th at 2:00 p.m.

The family wishes to express their grateful appreciation to the staff of New Century Hospice and for the tender attention of caregiver, Christine Miller.

Thank you, Jesus for Kay's life in you.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to BSF International, 19001 Huebner Rd., San Antonio, TX 78258-4019.

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16 Condolence(s)
Pam Allen
Waco,
Wednesday, November 3, 2021

What an interesting and fulfilling life your mom had Craig! It's no wonder you are the great guy and fine teacher that you are. I know her spirit will be with you always and peace to your whole family. Pam and Rick

Sue Maxey
Tulsa, OK
Sunday, October 31, 2021

Kay will be missed by many as she was a friend to and loved by many.
I have tried to check on her by phone for a few months.
My condolence to Johnny and family.

Paul Urban
Harper, TX
Thursday, October 28, 2021

So sorry to learn of Kay’s passing. She was such a sweet person, always very gracious with a smile for everyone. Please accept my deepest sympathy and know that the Johnny and the family are in my thoughts and prayers.

May His peace surround and comfort everyone.

Ron and Rhonel McBee
Lubbock, TX
Thursday, October 28, 2021

We loved Kay so much. She was a breath of fresh air and had the most wonderful smile. She loved the Lord and she was always willing to share. We will be praying for her family as they grieve the loss of their loved one. May God give you comfort at this time and may the memories give you joy. She is celebrating in heaven. Praise God.

Don Wilson
Arlington, TX
Thursday, October 28, 2021

This Monday is "All Saints Day" and Kay has her spot at the top of my list. What a humble, devoted, giant of a godly woman. I hear her voice already from the great cloud of witnesses spurring us on. God bless you Thornton friends.

Kelly Hamill Petty
Montgomery, TX
Wednesday, October 27, 2021

I was so very sorry to hear about sweet Kay. Johnny and Kay were members of Trinity Baptist Kerrville where my husband was Senior Pastor. They were an integral part of our church community. We shared the love of Baylor and the mountains together. They stepped in and helped me and my children when my husband, John Petty died tragically. Two very dear people in the Hamill/Petty lives. Our thoughts and prayers will be with Johnny and the rest of the family as you navigate how to do life without Kay. We love Johnny ... Hope to see you soon ! Kelly, Davis and Mara Petty

Mary Mcdonald
Magnolia, TX
Wednesday, October 27, 2021

My appreciation and love are deeply felt for Kay and
Johnny for the life they guided in rearing their son, and
my son-in-law, Craig. I love him dearly and I know you
sweet parents are the ones who taught him to be a
smart and thoughtful husband and family member.
With love to all the family, Mary

Carolyn and Ray Rothwell
Merrville, TX
Wednesday, October 27, 2021

We were so grateful to know Kay. She was a beautiful Christian and was well loved by all and especially her precious husband Johnny. Kay’s work at BSF will be long remembered. A great service to her love of God our savior.

Gail Woodward
Waco, TX
Wednesday, October 27, 2021

To Craig and Ashley and all the rest of your family, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how difficult it is to lose a parent. My thoughts are with you.

Sandy Griffin
P.O. Box 526, Hunt, Tx. 78024,
Monday, October 25, 2021

Special love for my golf team mate. Thinking of you will forever bring warm thoughts and great memories.

Fidel G Alvarado
San Antonio, TX
Monday, October 25, 2021

I am very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you Johnny and all your family. May she rest in peace.

Fidel G. Alvarado

Oak Hills Country Club

Reverend Nathan Stone
Waco, TX
Sunday, October 24, 2021

Kay’s love and compassion was infectious. Anytime she walked into a room she lit it up. She made this world a much better place.

Lee Anne & Stuart hendry
San Antonio, TX
Saturday, October 23, 2021

We are saddened by your loss of such a great lady who will leave a huge hole in the lives and hearts of many. Rejoicing alongside you knowing she is healed and whole and in the promise of eternal life. Please know you’re in our hearts and prayers.

Julie hamilton
Kerrville, TX
Saturday, October 23, 2021

Remembering Kay, Johnny too, as two beautiful souls who so lavished their love and generosity on all who know them. God blessed and joined this beautiful couple with 64 years of life together. My life, and my friend alices, life will be forever touched by them. Until we meet again.
Love and prayers for peace
Julie

Leo and Shirley Mills
Boerne, TX
Saturday, October 23, 2021

Kay was one of a kind! Loved by all who knew her because her sweet smile expressed love. Her godliness and hospitality truly impacted our lives. May God fill you with peace and comfort as you grieve and joy as you remember she is face to face with Jesus! Leo and Shirley Mills

We regret that we cannot attend Kay’s service. Shirley is recovering from hip replacement surgery.

Lisa Hooter
Boerne, TX
Saturday, October 23, 2021

Our condolences to you all. Kay was such a wonderful friend in Christ! Her smile will be missed! Hugs to you all from Joe and Lisa Hooter