Melinda Kay Evans, 76, peacefully fell asleep here on earth and awoke to glory in her heavenly home on July 13, 2024. To know Kay was to love her. Kay was born to Walter and Elizabeth Evans on February 23, 1948, in Paducah, Kentucky. She joined a loving home where she learned to hang tough with her devoted older brothers, Donald Morton and Lewis Edward "Eddie" Evans. Kay often told stories of her mischievous, yet fiercely protective, older siblings. After her Dad, brother Don, and her mother passed, she depended upon and cherished her beloved "Eddie" and sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Evans—moving, along with them, from Louisville, Kentucky to Orlando, Florida in 2004.

You see, in earthly terms, Kay was considered (clinically speaking) to be mentally and intellectually challenged; however, from a practical perspective, Kay's social "IQ" was remarkable. She lived independently, worked hard, and paid her bills. She was witty, mischievous, and funny.

In her youth, Kay attended a trade school in Arkansas where she learned hospitality services. Her personality and work ethic earned her huge tips when she waitressed at Piccadilly Buffet in Louisville, Kentucky. After moving to Orlando, she worked in housekeeping at Embassy Suites in Altamonte Springs. Kay was an award- winning Special Olympics athlete, specializing in Bocci and Bowling, winning many state and regional awards. She was also a proud Altamonte Springs Special Olympics "Sparkler," even cheering on the Orlando Magic! Kay was also an accomplished dancer, showing her skills at several Special Olympics showcases.

This spring, Kay was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a disease rendering her unable to swallow and breathe properly. How she missed having a cup of coffee! She endured several hospital stays since March, and received outstanding care at Advent Altamonte, ORMC, and especially at Advent's Solaris Apopka. She gained a new friend and advocate in Claudia Propiglia with Guardian Care Management, who helped us with placement and care for Kay these last few months and became family to us. Kay was well-loved by the team at Solaris and her family is so grateful for their care.

Kay was not defined by her mental and intellectual challenges. She is defined by and will be remembered for her amazing abilities and accomplishments. She had an unequaled work ethic. She persevered and thrived despite often being erroneously judged by people who focused on her limitations rather than her strengths.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Elizabeth Evans, her brother Donald Evans and nephew Mark Evans. Kay is reunited with them, as well as her kittens Lucy and Jade.

Leaving to cherish her memory are her beloved brother, Ed Evans and wife Ann; Don's wife, Ann; adored nephew Doug (Wendy); and cherished niece Kim (Charles). Also missing Kay are her "greats" including great-nephew Ethan and great-nieces Callie, Amelia, and Christiana, as well as Hilary.

Kay will be interred with her parents in Paducah, Kentucky later this year. Her family will have a toast in her honor and smile at the memory of the Life and Times of Melinda Kay Evans. Rest in Peace.