Ilean "Kay" Dwyer

Ilean “Kay” Dwyer, a beloved educator and cherished member of the Las Vegas community, passed away peacefully at her home on September 26, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 30, 1934, in Ely, Nevada, Kay lived a life marked by intelligence, drive, and an unwavering commitment to supporting everyone around her.

A graduate of Basic High School in 1952, Kay went on to attend Pepperdine University for two years before marrying Stanley Hardy, a veteran, on August 7, 1954. Together, they had three children. After Stanley’s passing, Kay returned to school and earned her degree from Nevada Southern University (now UNLV) in 1967. That same year, she began her career as a teacher at Clark High School, all while raising her children as a single mother.

Kay later married George Dwyer, who passed away in June 1976. Determined to further her career and passion for education, she earned her master’s degree in education from UNLV. As many who knew her could attest, “she had the heart of a teacher.” Kay spent 25 years teaching Business Law and Economics at Las Vegas High School, where she also served as an advisor for the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), inspiring countless students and fostering lifelong relationships with many of them.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kay was devoted to her family. Her favorite day of the year was “cookie day” with her grandchildren, a tradition filled with joy, laughter, and love. She also had a deep love for dogs, a passion she passed down to her children and grandchildren. Her best friend and cousin, Nikki Kingsley, was a constant source of love and companionship throughout her life.

Kay is survived by her three children: Stanley Hardy and his wife Susan Hardy, Kathleen Milner and her husband Mike Milner, and Loraine Malstrom and her husband Craig Malstrom. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Stuart Hardy, Stacey Hill and her husband Sam Hill, Jessica Schuck and her husband Henry Schuck, Gavin McMahon, and Michelle Milner. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Samson Hill and Grace Schuck.

Kay’s legacy of love, strength, and generosity will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched, both within her family and the generations of students who had the privilege of learning from her.

Services will be held at Palm Mortuary Boulder Highway on October 9, 2024, at 1:00 PM.