Kay Chessen Moffitt

Kay Chessen Moffitt, 73, of Charleston, South Carolina, wife of William Penn Moffitt, entered into eternal rest on Monday, April 14, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.

Born on December 1, 1951, in Denver, Colorado, Kay was the beloved daughter of the late Dr. James Chessen and the late Charlotte Hartley Chessen. Her academic pursuits led her to Colorado State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree, followed by an MBA from the esteemed College of William and Mary. These accomplishments laid a strong foundation for a distinguished career as an executive in the medical supply industry, where her contributions were widely recognized.

In addition to her professional accolades, Kay was also a gifted, award-winning artist, celebrated for her work and affiliation with the Charleston Artist Guild and the Northshore Art League in Chicago. She traveled extensively in pursuit of her artistic passion, attending artist workshops and studying with acclaimed teachers all over the world. Her creativity flourished alongside her culinary talents, having honed her skills at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute, where she became a masterful gourmet chef.

Kay dedicated much of her life to raising her two daughters, Katie and Kristine, who she considered her most cherished success. She attended every recital, sewed costumes for school plays, baked elaborate birthday cakes, and organized record-breaking school fundraisers.

An avid golfer, Kay often found joy on the golf course, particularly relishing the moments when she achieved victory over her husband. Her spirit of friendly competition was reflective of her vibrant personality.

Kay is survived by her loving husband, William, of Daniel Island, SC; her children, Kathryn E. M. Brizuela (Gino) of Chicago, IL, and Kristine N. Moffitt of West Hollywood, CA; as well as her siblings, Douglas Chessen (Paulette), Robert Chessen (Ann), and James Chessen (Patricia). She will be deeply missed by her friends and family, including her many loved nieces and nephews.

As we remember Kay Chessen Moffitt, we celebrate a life that was rich in love, creativity, and optimism. Her legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Kay and Bill Moffitt Family Fund at Duke University. This fund supports the direct costs of Dr. Richard Bedlack’s research. Dr. Bedlack was Kay’s doctor and is the head of the ALS department at Duke Medical Center. Contact Kyle Verber, Director of Development and Alumni Affairs, 300 W. Morgan Street, Suite 1000, Durham, NC 27701. Email kyle.verber@duke.edu or call 678-687-9649.

Arrangements are being handled by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. Mount Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.