In Loving Memory of Kentaya “Kay Kay” Slade

Sunrise: July 12, 1988 — Sunset: October 8, 2025

It is with both heavy hearts and deep gratitude for her life that we announce the passing of Kentaya, beloved mother, sister, daughter, and friend. Kay departed this world far too soon on October 8th 2025, at the age of 37, leaving behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and unwavering love.

Born and raised in Burlington, North Carolina, Kentaya was the kind of woman who lit up a room without trying. She was fiercely intelligent, quietly brave, and deeply kind—never one to seek the spotlight, but always the first to offer help, a laugh, or a warm embrace when it was needed most.

At the center of her world was her 12-year-old son, Malik, who was not only her greatest pride but also her greatest joy. Kay poured her entire heart into motherhood, raising Malik with a rare blend of tenderness and tenacity. She taught him how to be gentle, how to be bold, and most of all, how to love without limits.

Kentaya also leaves behind her three brothers—Michael, Terrence, and Darius—who will miss her beyond words. They will always remember the sister who could talk them through anything, who stood by them through every storm, and who made every holiday brighter just by being there. She was their compass, their peace, their constant.

To know Kentaya was to be reminded of what it means to love deeply, live honestly, and give generously. Whether she was volunteering at the local shelter, cooking too much food on Sundays, or staying up late talking with a friend who needed her,  gave fully of herself, never expecting anything in return.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Lillian, whom she missed every day, and now joins in eternal rest. We take comfort in the belief that they are reunited, laughing together once more.

Her absence is a wound that time will never fully heal—but her spirit lives on in every person she touched. In the love she sowed and left blooming behind her.

A celebration of Kentaya’s  life will be held on Saturday, October 8th, 2025, at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Yanceyville North Carolina, beginning at 11:00 AM. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the immediate family  

We love you. Always.

⸻

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