Kay Heard Shushan

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Kay Heard Shushan, who left us on September 27, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was at her home, comforted by the presence of her devoted, loving husband, Buddy Shushan.

Kay was born in Ruston, Louisiana to Roby Stephenson and William (Bill) Heard. She cherished her childhood, which was often spent with grandparents, Maude and Jim Heard, on their land in North Louisiana. It was there that Kay learned to cook, sew, fish and garden, enjoying the simple pleasures of country life.

Kay was focused and disciplined, working hard at everything she did. A distinguished student, Kay graduated as Salutatorian from New Iberia High School in the class of 1962. She later earned an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies from St. Georges Community College in Maryland with a perfect 4.0 average.

Before moving to New Orleans in the early 1970s, Kay lived in Spain for three years. She loved to immerse herself in local cultures, savoring regional foods and customs, including becoming fluent in Spanish. Once settled in New Orleans, she began a long and successful career with Delta Air Lines. Starting as a ticket-by-mail clerk in 1974, she held various positions across departments, including the city ticket office and marketing. In 1993, she was among the first to transition to the in-flight division, based in NYC, and ultimately flew as the onboard leader to many international destinations. She had a passion for travel, exploring over 50 countries.

In the early 1970s, Kay met the love of her life, Buddy, and together they created a beautiful family, including their cherished daughters, Stacy and Sheryl. Together they enjoyed the New Orleans social life, hosting dinner parties with gourmet cooking and a close circle of friends. With their daughters and extended family they traveled to the Holy Land and Africa.

Kay was a devoted daughter and spent many years caring for her mother. No one doubted her love for her family. She also enjoyed reading, exercising, walks in Audubon Park and yoga.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Roby and Roy Gray and William (Bill) and Pat Heard, brother, Larry Robinson, and two nieces, Haley Higginbotham and Rachelle Domingue. She is survived by her husband, HJ Buddy Shushan, her sisters, Paula Heard Higginbotham and Debbie Heard Sittig, her brothers, Fredy Robinson and Steven Robinson, her daughters, Stacy and Sheryl, her granddaughters, Anna and Leah Davis, and her Godchildren, David Phillips and Madison Sittig Mitchell.

She will be remembered fondly for her cooking and hospitality, her zest for exploring the world, and her unwavering dedication to family and friends. She will be greatly missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.

During the months Kay spent in Houston receiving treatment at MD Anderson, she and Buddy stayed at the Aishel House. The hospitality and support they received at the Aishel House resulted in it becoming their home away from home. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Aishel House at www.aishelhouse.org

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family in celebrating Kay’s life at 5231 Saint Charles Ave. in New Orleans, on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 4:00PM.

To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com