B. Kay Hess

B Kay Hess, 83, of Kahoka, MO passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

She was born February 8, 1943 in Wayland, MO the daughter of Elmer and Louise Ellison. Kay graduated from St Patrick High School.

On October 28, 1961 Kay was united in marriage to Dean Hess at the Shrine of St. Patrick Church. Together they built a life centered around family, farming and service to others. Dean preceded her in death on June 12, 2023.

She is survived by three daughters, Dena Hess of North Liberty, IA, Diane Brueggeman (Brian) of Creve Coeur, MO and Darla Smith (Brian) of Nora Springs, IA, one son, David Hess of Kahoka, MO, nine grandchildren, Jenna Smith of Nora Springs, IA, Katie Moore (Ryan) of Kahoka, MO, Tim Smith of Nora Springs, IA, Drenda Herring (Luke) of Gray Summit, MO, Erin Smith of Nora Springs, IA, Maddie Brueggeman of St. Louis, MO, Dereck Hess, Delana Hess, and Drake Hess all of Kahoka, MO; three great grandchildren Ryan Dean “RJ”, Elijah Matthew, and Natalia Elaine. She is also survived by her siblings, Gene Ellison, Bill Ellison (Carolyn), Mary Weber, and Gus Cameron, and sisters-in-law, Rita Ellison of Kahoka and Norma Bonello (Jim) of Florissant, MO; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

In addition to her husband, Kay was preceded in death by her parents, her in-laws, Edward F. and Mildred L. Crandal Hess, two brothers, Marty Ellison and Mark Cameron; one sister, Ruby Shoup; two brothers-in-law, Johnny Shoup and Larry Weber; and a nephew, Robert Weber.

Kay worked as a cook at Black Hawk Elementary School. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She most enjoyed time on the family farm and grew lots of vegetables in her gardens; sharing her produce with family members. She loved being a farm wife and working side by side with Dean. Dean and Kay raised cows, swine, chickens, turkeys and sheep. They were hosts for the Clark County kindergarten field trips for many years.

Kay was a devoted member of St Michael’s Catholic Church in Kahoka and was active in the Altar Society. She had a servant’s heart and was especially passionate about supporting the youth.

Kay was an original member of the Show Me FCE Club. She served many roles within the organization and enjoyed hosting them at her home. She also served as leader of various Girl Scout troops and as a long-time project leader in 4-H.

Kay loved sports and was an avid Cardinals Baseball fan. She was a faithful fan of all her children and grandchildren's school and sporting events; particularly the Clark County Fair exhibits.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at St Michael’s Catholic Church in Kahoka. Burial to follow at Kahoka Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2026 after 1 pm with family meeting with friends from 5 pm – 7 pm at the Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka. A wake service and recitation of the rosary will be held at 4 pm prior to the visitation.

Memorials may be made to St Croix Hospice or the donor’s choice.