Stacy Rae Shay
August 6, 1972 ~ August 3, 2025
Stacy Rae Shay, 52, beloved wife, devoted mother and loyal friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 3, 2025 after a courageous four and a half-year battle with cancer.
Born on August 6, 1972, in Fort Worth, TX, Stacy was the daughter of Jack and Sandra Simko.
Stacy’s greatest joy in life was her family. She and her husband, Mike Shay, shared twenty-four beautiful years of marriage, building a home full of love and laughter. More than anything, she considered being a mother to her son, Braxton, and daughter, Brielle, her most cherished accomplishment. She was so proud of the people they are becoming. She shared a lifelong bond with her sister and best friend Mellissa, who was a constant in her life, walking through every chapter with her. Stacy was also deeply devoted to her “fur baby” Piper, who rarely left her side.
She had a soul drawn to the sea – finding joy and calm in the sound of waves, warm sand beneath her feet, and the sun on her shoulders. The beach was her happy place, and those moments by the ocean brought her peace and light, even in the midst of life’s storms
Stacy faced her illness with unwavering strength and a determination to live life to the fullest. Her resilience through the hardest days was nothing short of extraordinary.
Stacy had a rare gift of making others feel seen and loved. Her vibrant soul and warm heart touched everyone lucky enough to have known her. Although her time here was far too short, Stacy’s love lives on – in the hearts of her family and friends, and the lasting memories she created.
Rosary will be at 7:00 pm, Thursday, August 14, 2025; Memorial Service will be at 1:00 pm, Friday, August 15, 2025, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. The service will be live streamed and is available to view by clicking “Watch Event” below.
Memorials have been established with: Victory In The Valley, 3755 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS 67218; Valley Center Animal League, 141 S. Park Ave., Valley Center, KS 67147.
Broadcast Date:
Services
Rosary: Thursday, August 14, 2025 7:00 pm
Downing & Lahey East Mortuary
6555 E. Central
Wichita, KS 67206
Memorial Service: Friday, August 15, 2025 1:00 pm
Downing & Lahey East Mortuary
6555 E. Central
Wichita, KS 67206
View current weather.
Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Stacy Rae Shay 's name.
Valley Center Animal League
141 S. Park Ave.
Valley Center,
KS
67147
Victory in the Valley
3755 E. Douglas
Wichita,
KS
67218
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
My sincere sympathies to the family and all who knew and loved Stacy.
Pat Schuessler
Will miss her smile and kind personality.
She has left her light’s residue on the lives of those who were around her. I can see it shining off of you, like the light does on the moon, every time you talked about her or your kids. My heart goes out to you all for your loss.
My heart breaks for you right now. Stacy had a wonderful ability to make everyone in the room feel seen, understood, and welcome. She was truly a one-of-a-kind soul. If there is anything that we can do, please let us know.
All our love,
Judy and Zac
Mike, Braxton, Brielle and family…my heart aches for you for your loss. I can’t imagine your pain. Stacy was a light to all and a beautiful person, and I’m truly fortunate to have known her. Although difficult to understand or comprehend, with this loss, there will be light. I truly believe she will be there with you on the rest of your journey…guiding, supporting, and loving. Hold tight to that, the memories, joys and sorrows … and move forward together knowing you have God, her, and a support network here to support you. I love you all.
Mike and family, I was so sad to hear of Stacy’s passing. We’ll be praying for you all.
My heart felt prayers and condolences to all the family at the loss of a beautiful sole and woman
My heart felt prayers and condolences to all the family at the loss of a beautiful sole and woman. Sweet Stacy, you were the love and joy in a broken world, your cooking skills were always awesome and fun to enjoy way back when. Mike, Mel and Taylor my heart breaks for your loss. May you feel the love and prayers from all those who gather to help you in this huge loss.