Sandra Kay Lovell

Sandra Kay (Baird) Lovell, lovingly known as Kay, age 92, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Rococo Healthcare Services in Olathe, Kansas.

Kay was born on March 11, 1934, in Dallas, Texas, to Marvin and Mae (Broyles) Baird. She spent her early childhood in Dallas surrounded by her mother’s family before moving to Kilgore, Texas, with her parents at the age of five. She grew up in East Texas near her father’s family and welcomed the birth of her younger sister, Loree, the following year. Family remained one of the most important and cherished parts of Kay’s life.

Although frequent illness caused her to miss much of her early elementary years, Kay developed a lifelong love of learning once she was able to attend school regularly. She quickly excelled academically and discovered a passion not only for gaining knowledge, but for sharing it with others through teaching and encouragement. Kay enjoyed playing both the piano and flute and was an avid reader throughout her life. Her father often spent time calculating statistics for local sports teams, nurturing in Kay a lasting enthusiasm for being a fan of football and baseball, while her mother passed down treasured skills such as sewing, counted cross-stitch, and baking. Kay became especially well known among family and friends for her beloved “Gran’ma’s Chocolate Pie” and her famous fruit salad, both staples at countless family gatherings and celebrations.

After graduating from Kilgore High School in 1952, Kay attended Abilene Christian College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree summa cum laude in 1955, completing her studies in just three years. She began her teaching career in Fort Worth, Texas, where she met the love of her life, Sam Lovell, on the steps of Southside Church of Christ. The couple married in 1956 and began a beautiful journey together that would span 68 years.

While Sam attended The University of Texas, Kay taught school nearby before the couple’s many moves took them to Los Angeles, Abilene, Greenville, Richardson, Plano, Newport News, and Crowley. Along the way, they raised their two daughters, Mindy and Susan, creating a loving home wherever life led them.

After dedicating several years to raising her family as a stay-at-home mother, Kay earned her Master’s degree in Education from North Texas State University in 1970. She returned to the classroom and spent many years teaching in several school districts before retiring in 1989. Later, Sam received a job opportunity that moved them to Overland Park, Kansas, bringing them closer to their daughters.

Kay’s love of history enriched both her life and the lives of others. She served as a docent at Thistle Hill Cattle Baron Mansion in Fort Worth and at The John Wornall House Museum in Kansas City. She often delighted visitors by dressing in period clothing while giving tours. Her family fondly joked that road trips required strategic distraction whenever a historical marker appeared, for fear that Kay insist on stopping to read every word.

Faith was the foundation of Kay’s life. She was a devoted servant of the Lord, a diligent student of Scripture, and a dedicated teacher in children’s and women’s ministries for many years. In retirement, she continued serving faithfully through women’s Bible studies, flower ministry, and creating visual aids for children’s programs at Overland Park Church of Christ.

Kay also found great joy in fellowship and friendly competition. She loved games of all kinds and was an enthusiastic member of 42-domino, bridge, and game-night groups, especially enjoying Mexican Train. Together, Kay and Sam shared a passion for travel, visiting all 50 states and every continent except Antarctica. Along the way, Kay built a treasured collection of owl figurines that she proudly displayed in her home. Among her greatest joys was traveling to Ohio to watch her grandchildren, Michael and Emily, participate in school and extracurricular activities. Kay was deeply and intentionally invested in the lives of her grandchildren, cherishing every opportunity to encourage, support, and celebrate them.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Mae Baird; her beloved husband of 68 years, Sam Lovell; and her daughter, Susan Lovell.

She is lovingly remembered by her sister, Loree Samford of Kilgore; her daughter, Mindy Lisa and husband Don Lisa of Overland Park; her grandson, Michael Lisa and wife Anna of Cleveland; and her granddaughter, Emily Lisa of Seattle. She also leaves behind many dear friends and extended family members, including the Lagerquist family, whose lives were richly touched by her kindness, wisdom, and steadfast faith.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Johnson County Funeral Chapel & Memorial Gardens, 11200 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, Kansas. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m. and burial at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harvesters Community Food Network in honor of Kay Lovell.