Vivian Annetta Kay Symmank

Obituary for Vivian Annetta Kay Symmank

Vivian Annetta Kay Symmank, age 77, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025, in Kingwood, Texas. Born on December 18, 1947, in Dayton, Texas, she was the beloved daughter of William Seth Kay and Rosa Lee Kay.

Vivian was a lifelong resident of Dayton, with the exception of a decade spent in Monroeville, Alabama. She was a proud graduate of Dayton High School, where she was active in volleyball and basketball and a spirited member of the Leather Poppers, a group of horseback riders who proudly carried flags into rodeo arenas.

A woman of deep roots and quiet strength, Vivian was a member of the First Baptist Church of Dayton and cherished the times she was able to attend. She had a deep love for westerns, with John Wayne among her favorites, though her heart belonged to the classic Dirty Dancing, a film she watched countless times.

Vivian and her beloved husband of 53 years, Joe Symmank, shared a passion for country dancing and fishing. She had a soft spot for animals, especially dogs, often rescuing strays and giving them loving homes. Among her many furry companions, her cherished dogs Candy and Jade held a special place in her heart.

Vivian is preceded in death by her parents, William and Rosa Lee Kay; her loving husband, Joe Symmank; and her brother, Donald Sprayberry.

She leaves behind her devoted daughters, Wendy Dupree and husband Bobby, and Heather Walker and husband Bubba Henry. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Caitlin Dupree, Sophia Dupree, and Cameron Walker, all of whom she adored dearly.

Pallbearers: Cameron Walker, Bobby Dupree, Steven Hurst, Cory Brister, Casey McNeil, & Cody Moravitz.

A visitation will be held on Monday, April 21, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at Pace Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. led by Pastor Tricia Bledsoe. Burial at Palms Memorial Park, Dayton, Texas.

Vivian will be remembered for her warm spirit, her love of family, animals, and the simple joys of life, from dancing under country lights to watching her favorite films. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.