Kelcey Renee Gay-Mills

With profound love and heartfelt remembrance, we celebrate the life of Kelcey Renee Gay-Mills, a cherished wife, mother, daughter, sister, educator, and friend. Born on December 28, 1978, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, to Glenda Gay and the late Kenneth Gay, Sr. Raised in a nurturing home filled with love, wisdom, and unwavering encouragement, Kelcey grew up alongside her devoted older brother, Kenneth “Punchy” Gay. Their bond was shared experiences, mutual respect, and enduring love. From an early age, Kelcey demonstrated remarkable intelligence, boundless creativity, and compassion for others. These core values guided her throughout her life's journey and became the foundation of her life's calling. Kelcey’s unwavering faith in God was the cornerstone of her life, providing guidance, strength, and comfort through every challenge and triumph. She was baptized at Mill Street Church of Christ in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and remained deeply devoted to her spiritual journey. She shared her faith as a Sunday School teacher, instilling the principles of prayer, Bible study, and trust in God in her two sons, encouraging them to find solace and strength through their beliefs. A dedicated mother, Kelcey fully embraced her role as a supportive sports mom, cheering enthusiastically at baseball, swimming, basketball, and football games, always prioritizing her family. Her boundless love and selflessness were evident in her unwavering commitment to her sons and extended family, for whom she would do anything, embodying the true spirit of devotion and care. Kelcey was a proud 1996 Lake Charles-Boston (LCB) High School graduate, where she excelled academically, consistently earning honor roll distinctions. Her love for music flourished as a member of the LCB “Cougar” band, where she cultivated her musical talents and built lasting connections within her community. A natural leader with a heart for service, Kelcey actively contributed to youth organizations such as Top Teens of America and Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Through these roles; she exemplified compassion, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to uplifting those around her, leaving a lasting impact on her community and all who knew her. A steadfast commitment to education and personal growth marked Kelcey’s academic journey. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from McNeese State University in 2000 and a Master of Arts in Educational Technology in 2002. Her pursuit of knowledge continued as she embarked on doctoral studies in Curriculum and Instruction at Texas Southern University, exemplifying her passion for lifelong learning. As a proud and devoted Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. member, Kelcey was initiated into the “Pi Zeta” Undergraduate Chapter at McNeese State University on April 25, 1998. Her dedication to service extended beyond her sorority, as she actively sought to inspire and empower those in her community, fostering growth and opportunity for others. Kelcey’s teaching career began in 2000 as a middle school English teacher with Calcasieu Parish Public Schools (CPSB) in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Her passion for education and student success led her to Texas in 2004, where she served as a middle school Math teacher and basketball coach with the Galveston Independent School District (GISD). In 2006, she joined the Houston Independent School District (HISD), where she made a lasting impact as an English teacher, mentor teacher, and campus team leader at both the elementary and middle school levels. Completing the (HISD) Aspiring Assistant Principal Academy demonstrated her leadership and professional growth commitment. Kelcey's unwavering dedication to her students and community was recognized with the prestigious Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators (HAABSE) “Outstanding Teacher of the Year” award for the 2022-2023 school year at Dogan Elementary (HISD). She firmly believed every child deserves a champion, approaching even the most challenging students with empathy, hope, and the belief in their inherent potential for greatness. On August 8, 2015, Kelcey united in marriage with her soulmate, Keithrick Renard Mills, Sr., in a bond that exemplified love, partnership, and faith. Together, they built a home filled with love, trust, and laughter, creating a haven of joy and warmth. Their love grew even deeper with the birth of their son, Keithrick Renard Mills Jr., on February 8, 2018. Kelcey wholeheartedly dedicated herself to nurturing her family, providing unconditional love, guidance, and support to ensure they thrived in every aspect of life. Her eldest son, Kendal Mikel Mose, was also a profound source of light and inspiration. Although his passing on May 19, 2019, brought an immeasurable loss, Kelcey’s faith remained steadfast. She continued to love, guide, and support her family with extraordinary grace and courage, embodying resilience and strength even in the face of profound sorrow. Her enduring love for her family is a testament to her unshakable faith and unwavering devotion. Kelcey’s legacy is one of love, intellect, and unwavering resilience. Known for her sharp wit, masterful debating skills, and passion for thoughtful discourse, she was a force to be reckoned with. Her voice was powerful and unapologetic, and she knew to stand her ground gracefully and eloquently. Her diverse talents and interests brought joy and creativity into every aspect of her life. She poured her heart into every endeavor, from writing poetry and reading to cooking, photography, and hosting family gatherings. Her home was a place of warmth and hospitality, where family and friends were always welcomed with open arms, delicious meals, and moments of shared laughter and love. Kelcey’s mission in life was to uplift others, her students, her family, and her community. She believed sincerely in the transformative power of education and dedicated herself to advocating for students from all walks of life. Her passion for excellence inspired those around her to strive for greatness and dream beyond their circumstances. Driven by a visionary spirit, she aspired to open a daycare, implementing the instructional curriculum she developed for her early childhood students. Her bold, larger-than-life presence left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered, and her enduring impact will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Kelcey’s enduring legacy lives on through her devoted husband, Keithrick Renard Mills, Sr.; her cherished son, Keithrick Renard Mills, Jr.; her beloved bonus children, Keontae’via Mills, Kenyun Hemphil, and the late Kaitlyn Mills; her dedicated brother, Kenneth “Punchy” Gay; her treasured niece, Kaylyn Rekail Gay; and her beloved mother, Glenda Gay. Her life was a testament to love, strength, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Kendal Mikel Mose, whose joy and light touched everyone around him; her cherished father, Kenneth Gay, Sr., a guiding presence of wisdom and support; her sister, Josephine Gay, who passed at birth; and her beloved bonus daughter, Kaitlyn Mills, whose spirit continues to shine in the hearts of those who loved her. Kelcey’s physical presence will be profoundly absent, but her spirit and influence will remain forever woven into the hearts of her family, friends, and community. Kelcey’s life was a radiant testament to faith, wisdom, and compassion. She embodied unconditional love and lived by the enduring values of kindness, friendship, and perseverance. Her guiding message, “Love God, Love Others, and Love Yourself,” was more than words. It was a way of life reflected in her actions and relationships. Though she is no longer physically present, her light continues to shine brightly in the lives of those she touched. Her legacy of love, courage, and faith will be cherished for generations as family, friends, students, and loved ones carry forward the profound lessons she imparted. Kelcey’s story is about love in action, unwavering service, and enduring faith. It is a story that will continue to inspire and be celebrated for years.

Kelcey Renee Gay-Mills

December 28, 1978 - November 25, 2024