Kay Lynn Cardwell of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2026, surrounded by her three sons, their wives, and the grandchildren she loved so dearly.

Known as Kay Lynn to family and those who knew her from her earliest years, Kay was born in Robstown, Texas, to Lonnie and Jeanne Cardwell. She filled her life with family, friendships, music, adventure, and plenty of memories along the way.

Music was part of Kay’s story from her high school drumline days forward. She attended countless concerts, including multiple Neil Diamond shows. Her adventurous spirit took her across continents and countries, from scuba diving in oceans around the world to visiting the Great Wall of China. She was also a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan who rarely missed a game and an avid collector of sports memorabilia and treasures that connected her to special memories and moments.

Her greatest devotion, however, was always to her family. Kay was the proud mother of three sons and welcomed their wives into the family she loved so much. Then came the role that gave her another name: Kay Ray.

Her grandchildren—Kendall, Bryan, Parker, Brooke Lyn, and Adalyn—held an especially treasured place in her heart. Kay Ray loved watching them grow, cheering them on in sports and activities, celebrating their accomplishments and taking tremendous pride in every milestone and great feat.

Kay also treasured the many friendships she made during her years at Bob Lacy Ford and throughout her 27 years at Calallen High School. Those years brought her friendships and relationships she valued throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lonnie and Jeanne Cardwell, and her sister, Gail Shanahan. She is survived by her sons, Cory, Chase, and Chad Wauson; their wives, Angela, Tiffany, and Breanne; her grandchildren, Kendall, Bryan, Parker, Brooke Lyn, and Adalyn; her aunt, Janette Barlow; and her brother, Larry Cardwell, his wife, Joan, and their family.

Kay will be remembered for a smile that came easily, a kindness that came naturally, and a heart that always put someone else first. She leaves behind a lifetime of adventures, friendships, music, laughter, and memories—and a family that knew without question how deeply they were loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Kay’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to a charity of your choice.