Obituary for Kay Frances Galli

Kay Frances Galli passed away on July 5, following a brief illness. A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids at 11:00am on July 30, with Pastor Sherrie Ilg officiating. A visitation will take place prior to the service from 9:00-11:00am.

Kay was born on January 14, 1940, to Frances Woods Mulholland and Lloyd Hetzel Mulholland of Webster City. She Graduated from Lincoln High School in Webster City in 1958. She was married to Bill Grove from 1960 until 1975. Together they had two children; son, Greg Grove and daughter Kellie (Grove) Johnson. Kay married Bill Galli in 1976.

After graduating from the University of lowa, Kay taught 5th grade at Cleveland Elementary for 16 years and then in the district’s gifted and talented program for the rest of her career which spanned over 35 years. The love of learning that was inspired by Kay’s teaching was immeasurable.

Music was a big part of her life. There was always a song in her heart and she found many ways to share her gifts. She began piano at age 5, played viola throughout her school years, sang in church choirs for over 45 years, and sang in the Cedar Rapids Concert Chorale for many years. She was also part of a local harp ensemble called Young at Harp.

For many years, including 2022, Kay produced a fundraiser concert, “Joyful Noises,” which has raised many thousands of dollars for Family Promise of Linn County, an organization that provides support and services to homeless families in the community.

Kay was an active member of P.E.O. chapter LI, served on the board of the Cedar Rapids Concert Chorale, as well as many committees at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.

Always the organizer, Kay was happiest when her family could all be together on special occasions. Survivors include her husband, William Galli, children, Gregory (Penny) Grove of Waukee, IA and Kellie (Dan) Johnson of West Des Moines, IA. Grandchildren Ashley (Ryan) Musson, Haley (Kaleb) Admire, Mazie (Matt) Stilwell and Maddie Johnson, as well as five great grandchildren. Siblings, Ed (Katie) Mulholland, Shirley (Al) Mulholland, and Colleen (John) Eggener.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Frances and Lloyd Mulholland, stepdaughter, Cindy Heindselman, and great grandson, Matthew.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church to help realize her dream of a grand piano for their sanctuary, or to Family Promise of Linn County.