The Creede community has lost a true local icon with the passing of Merolyn Kay Wyley. She passed away at her home in Creede on Sept. 1, 2023. She was born in Monte Vista on Jan. 26, 1945, to W W “Bibs” and Nell Wyley.

Kay had a wonderful childhood growing up at Cottonwood Cove Lodge with her sister, brother, and more tourist kids than we can count. She was often up to no good playing endless pranks on the wranglers, family, and guests. She was always a hoot to be around and full of one-liners and endless stories.

Kay graduated from Creede High School in 1963 and from Adams State College in 1968. She left home to work for the Dallas Morning News for a couple of years but soon returned home to Creede. She worked as a secretary at both the Creede School and Homestake Mines before accepting the Development Officer position at the Creede Repertory Theater, which she held for 20 years. The Theater was her true calling and her passion. She loved all the company members and was a true supporter to all of them. We can be sure that wherever she calls home now, she has her tutu on and is leading the Kazoo Band in style.

After retirement, Kay pursued her love for painting. She was an accomplished artist and was known for her paintings on aspen leaves and the Christmas cards she made for family for years. She enjoyed traveling with Nell and often made trips to the casino and abroad. Kay served on the Creede Board of Trustees for eight years. She was proud of the accomplishments the board made for the City during her term. She was a dedicated member of the Creede Ladies Aid Society for many years and served as the Treasurer for 9 years.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents Bibs and Nell Wyley; grandparents Clinton and Ethel Wyley; Luther Humberson and Margaret Kramer.

She is survived by her sister Gea Wyley; brother Ken (Cindy) Wyley; nephew B R (Kristen) Means; nieces Lauri Jordan (Nancy Leggitt) and Teresa Wyley; great-niece Aryonna Means (Chris Brewer) and great-great-niece Giavonna Brewer.

A memorial service will be held at the Creede Community Church on Friday, Sept. 15, at 2 p.m. But in true spirit of Kay and her quirkiness, a pre-game lunch in the fellowship hall will begin at 12:30 p.m. to fill our tummies with food and our hearts with stories to honor our storyteller.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Creede Ladies Society to honor Kay.

Arrangements in care of Strohmayer’s Funeral Home of Monte Vista.