Kay Marie Janet Chadwick (née Lochrie), age 64, of Delta, Colorado, passed away on May 3, 2025, in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Kay was born on December 26, 1960, in Butte, Montana, to Wallace Lochrie and Marilyn Packer (née Johnson). In 1978, she met the love of her life, Leland Chadwick, and they married the next year. Together, they built a life of love, adventure, and unwavering commitment. From the early years spent traveling the country to raising a family rooted in love and resilience, Kay’s life was defined by strength, devotion, and deep care for others.
She was the heart of her family—the steady, joyful presence who brought everyone together. Kay was a devoted wife to her beloved husband of 45 years, Leland Chadwick, and a proud and loving mother to Joshua Chadwick of Otis, CO, and Amanda Chadwick (Keith Howell) of Montrose, CO. She was also a deeply cherished grandmother to Jory, Hunter, Aloryn, Aspen, Aidan, and Axton.
Kay had a lifelong love of books and education. She worked for the Otis School District as a student aide and library assistant, later continuing her passion as a librarian at the Delta Correctional Center. She had a gift for helping people find their way—whether it was supporting children with special needs or giving inmates the tools to succeed. Kay served with humility, compassion, and quiet strength.
Kay is remembered for her warmth, strength, and unwavering love for her family. She was the heart of every holiday and gathering, and her home was always filled with joy, laughter, and welcome. She had a true green thumb, a deep love for the outdoors, and an extraordinary ability to make those around her feel supported and seen. Kay was always unapologetically herself, and her authenticity left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her father, Wallace Lochrie, and her brother, William (Billy) Lochrie.
A funeral service was held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church of Otis, interment followed at the Otis Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Otis Preschool Program, an organization dear to Kay’s heart.
In every garden she grew, every smile she inspired, and every heart she touched—her spirit lives on.