Kay Ellen Branch

Kay Ellen Branch passed away on January 11, 2025, in Spokane Valley at the age of 72. Her husband, Bill, and daughter, Taryn, were by her side.

Kay was born in Colfax, Wash., on April 9, 1952, to Harold and Gladys Kirkpatrick. Kay grew up in Colfax. She graduated from Colfax High School in 1970 where she was a cheerleader and met the love of her life, Bill Branch. Bill followed Kay to Eastern Washington University (she was the studious one in the relationship) and they were married in 1971. After a brief stopover in Great Falls, Mont., they moved to Edmonds, Wash., where they started their family.

Kay was a wonderful mother to Justin and Taryn. As the children grew older, she began teaching math at Edmonds Community College. She went back to school and received her Master of Education from the University of Washington in 1992. Upon completion of her degree, the family moved to Oak Harbor, Wash., where Kay began teaching high school Math. Kay loved teaching and was awarded Oak Harbor Teacher of the Year in 1998. In 2006, Kay and Bill followed their daughter, Taryn, back to Eastern Washington purchasing their dream home on Williams Lake, near Cheney. Soon after, Kay became a Grandma-a role she cherished.

Kay was incredibly intelligent, and had a wonderful sense of humor. Even after suffering strokes in 1999, her sharp wit and warmth remained intact. She could light up a room with her jokes, making even the toughest times feel lighter. She got such a kick out of the little things, and you couldn't help but feel so warm with her. You always felt at home with Kay. She was exactly who she was. Her ability to love unconditionally, support without hesitation, and laugh freely will truly be missed.

Kay is survived by her husband Bill; her brothers Larry, Terry, and Al; sister Judy; her children Justin Branch and wife Julie, Taryn Bare and husband Tate; grandchildren, Joie and Paisley Branch, Lily, Bryce and Silas Bare. Each brought great joy into her life.

There will be a memorial service at the Cheney Funeral Chapel at 1pm on Friday, January 17th.