Lenora Tennessee Lay's Obituary
Lenora Tennessee Lay
Lenora Tennessee Lay, beloved mother, grandmother, great‑grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was born on August 7, 1935, in Nowata, Oklahoma, to Griffin Waller and Leva Daisy (Jackson) Carr.
Lenora grew up in Nowata and after graduating high school, she attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College where she was honored to be on the dance team, "The Norsestars."
Lenora built a long and respected career working in various departments at Cities Service Oil & Gas Company, which became Occidental Petroleum where she retired from the Land Department. Her attention to detail, strong work ethic, and warm personality made her a valued colleague and a steady presence throughout her years of service.
Faith was a central part of Lenora’s life. She was a devoted member of Kirk of the Hills and actively participated in Women’s Bible Study, where she formed lasting friendships and shared her deep kindness and compassion with others.
Lenora had a joyful spirit and a gift for bringing people together. She loved playing Canasta with friends and other games—especially when her grandchildren were gathered around the table. She enjoyed going on drives, taking in the world around her with curiosity and delight. Known as the life of the party, Lenora was outgoing, friendly, and endlessly inclusive. She made sure everyone felt welcome, seen, and valued. Her kind heart and generous nature touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.
She is survived by her children, David Lay and his wife Kathleen, and Cindy Ketchum and her husband Kevin; her grandchildren, Cortney Pelley, Callie Merritt, and Stephanie McCrary; and her great‑grandchildren, Palmer Pelley, Pearl Pelley, Ketch Merritt, Kacki Merritt, Klein Merritt, Scott McCrary, and Landon McCrary.
Lenora was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Eugene Lay; her parents, Griffin and Leva Carr; her brother, Billy Joe Carr; and her sister‑in‑law, Donna Carr.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 12:30 PM at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel, with a reception to follow at the Floral Haven Family Center.
Lenora’s warmth, laughter, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who loved her.
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