Gwendolyn Kathleen (Kay) Cummings McClellan, 93, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully Thursday, June 6, 2019 in her daughter’s home, surrounded by family. Kay was a published author, an accomplished artist, singer and dancer. She was also a successful entrepreneur and award-winning businesswoman. She served faithfully in her church in various positions and cherished her time as a temple worker in the Mesa, Arizona temple. She also served a mission with her husband, Bill, to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Family History Library in Mesa.
Kay was born on July 16, 1925 in New Paris, Pennsylvania, to Harry and Amanda Shaffer and was the sixth of seven children, now all deceased. She is also preceded in death by two husbands, Julian William Cummings, and most recently, Lowell T. McClellan. She leaves behind her children, Linda Cochran (Rob), Christine Gless (Ray), and Bill Kemppel, thirteen grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.
This talented, compassionate, classy, lovely lady is beloved of her family and will be greatly missed! We love you Mom, Nana!!!
A viewing will be held on Thursday, June 13 from 6:30-8:30pm at Bunkers Funeral Home, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85213. Funeral services will be held for Kay on Friday, June 14th, 2019 at 10am at the Mesa East Stake Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2228 E. Brown Rd., Mesa, AZ 85123. Burial will be at the National Cemetery in Cave Creek, AZ.
We were so sorry and shocked to hear of Kay’s passing. She was a sweet soul, and a wonderful wife to Lowell. Our condolences to all of her family and friends.
I’m sorry I did not see this sooner. Kay belonged to our writer’s group for quite a few years. She was always charming, gracious, extremely talented and she will be missed. Sending our condolences to her loved ones.
Today I just heard that my aunt Kay passed away a year ago this past June. I am so sorry and deeply saddened to hear this. I have fond memories of my aunt and my cousins. My condolences to her family. She was a very special lady. Carol Shaffer-Jones.