Serena Mary (Wells) McKay

Serena Mary (Wells) McKay, 96, died January 5, 2026, in her home in Fort Pierce, Florida.

Serena Mary, the eldest of eight siblings, was born on March 14,1929 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Ted and Serena Wells. Married for 58 years to William Joseph McKay, she moved to Fort Pierce, Florida in 1968.

Serena loved family, friends and generously supported family reunions. Her home was a hub of activity for children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren who fondly remember the special toy “box” in the kitchen cabinet. No family visit was complete without snacks, including cheese and crackers, veggie sticks, and grapes. Holidays were always special as family near and far awaited their personal box of Grandma cookies, sometimes shipped overseas to those in the military. Keeping in touch through annual cards for birthdays, anniversaries, and “just because” was one of her favorite activities.

For many years she extended her care into driving a school bus for St. Lucie County Schools. She often spoke of how she managed to motivate children to behave on the bus, including learning sign language and creating special moments. She valued her co-workers and thought of them as friends. In her spare time, she walked around the park, attended mass, enjoyed reading and bowling.

Survivors include her brother Art Wells and sisters Lois (Bob) Copeland, Mary B (Bert) Giumetti, and Rose Ann (Ron) Hays. Also, her children Katherine McKay, William (Anabel) McKay, Jr., Serena DeAtley, Christina (Jack Bradham) Garwood, Patricia McKay, Rose McKay, and Jerome (Lorraine Mostler) McKay; 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anastasia Catholic Church, 407 South 33rd Street, Fort Pierce, FL 34947. 

Services: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Anastasia Catholic Church. Luncheon reception to follow at Haisley Funeral home.