Kay Malone

Thelma Catherine “Kay” Huxley Malone, age 94, passed away peacefully at home in West Deptford, NJ, on January 24, 2026, surrounded by members of her loving family.  For over 40 years, Kay made her home in Newark, Delaware, where she was known as a cherished friend and neighbor.

Kay was born in 1931, in York, Pennsylvania, to Walter and Thelma Huxley. She graduated from York Catholic High School, where she met her future husband, Robert Elsworth Malone, at a skating party hosted by his school. Their young romance grew into a lifelong partnership, and they were married in York, Pennsylvania, in 1952. Robert preceded her in death in November 2013.

Kay became a Registered Nurse at Fitzgerald Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in 1952, beginning a healthcare career that would span more than 50 years. She started her professional life as a nurse and went on to serve at Illinois Benedictine College, the University of Delaware, and later at Brandywine Counseling in Wilmington, Delaware.  She worked at BCCS for 30 years serving as Medical Reviewer, and Director of the Medical Department, supervising the Opioid Treatment Program.   Throughout her career, Kay was deeply committed to caring not only for patients, but also for students and those living with addiction —guiding, mentoring, and advocating for their physical and emotional well-being. Her work was defined by compassion, integrity, and a lifelong commitment to helping others heal, learn, and thrive.

In 1982, at the age of 50, Kay returned to school and earned her Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, reflecting her lifelong belief in learning, growth, and service. She went on to develop internship programs, organize blood drives, and lead seminars and workshops on health issues, substance abuse, alcohol awareness, and mental health.

Kay became a recognized expert in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and delivered dozens of presentations and workshops, educating thousands of women and healthcare professionals. Through this work, she helped raise awareness, change practices, and protect future generations—an impact that extended far beyond the institutions where she worked.

Kay was gregarious, full of personality, and possessed a genuine love for life. She adored animals of all kinds and shared her life with many beloved dogs and cats over the years. She loved the beach, watching thunderstorms roll in, savoring seafood, and enjoying a well-made Manhattan.

A devout Catholic, Kay was an active member of St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Hockessin, Delaware, for more than 30 years. She was a dedicated member of the Legion of Mary and served for many years as a CCD teacher, generously sharing her faith and guiding young people in their spiritual formation. In later years, she was a beloved member of Sacred Heart Parish in Camden, NJ.  Her faith was a deep and abiding presence throughout her life.

Above all else, Kay loved her family. Spending time with her children, her 17 grandchildren, and her 23 great-grandchildren was always her first choice. She was there for beach vacations, every graduation and birthday—singing the loudest and cheering the proudest. She delighted in celebrating each family member’s accomplishments, offering encouragement, steadfast support, and heartfelt recognition. When she heard good news about one of her grandchildren, you could often hear her exclaim, “Hot damn, that’s wonderful!”

Kay was predeceased by her husband, Robert Malone; her brother, Walter (Buddy); and her daughter, Meghan Eileen Symon.

She is survived by her children: Karen Dougill; Kimberley (Sean) Dougherty; Patrick Malone (Beverly Green Malone Theriot); Robert Malone; and Kathryn Malone; along with 17 wonderful grandchildren and 23 beautiful great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at noon on Friday, February 6, 2026, at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 7200 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, Delaware 19707. A viewing will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until noon. Interment will follow immediately at All Saints Cemetery, Wilmington, Delaware.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Legion of Mary at St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Hockessin, DE.