Obituary: Kay Montgomery Albrecht, “Dr. Kay” USL graduate and Visionary in Early Childhood Education

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Anna Katherine “Kay” Montgomery Albrecht, who departed this life on November 1, 2024, at the age of 75. Known to many as Dr. Kay, she was a visionary in early childhood education. She leaves behind an indelible legacy in education, having dedicated her life to advancing the field of early childhood development through innovative methods, compassionate leadership, and a deep commitment to fostering the potential of young learners.

Born in Lafayette, Louisiana, Kay grew up in the Arbolada subdivision next to the University of Louisiana Lafayette, where she earned her BA in Elementary Education, Kindergarten Endorsement. While attending the University of Tennessee, she obtained her Master of Science in Child Development and Educational Administration and met her husband, Larry Albrecht. After their marriage, Kay and Larry moved to San Antonio, Texas. Kay taught at a number of universities including San Antonio College, the University of the Incarnate Word, and Texas State University in San Marcos, where she also directed the university’s laboratory schools for children.

Kay’s passion for education led her back to Knoxville, Tennessee, where she completed her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Child and Family Studies and Early Childhood Education at the University of Tennessee. Following her academic pursuits, Kay and Larry settled in Houston, Texas. Kay ventured into the corporate world and achieved significant success in the training and development of preschool teachers.

In 1986, she founded HeartsHome Early Learning Center, a nationally accredited childcare and educational center for preschool children. HeartsHome was groundbreaking, offering both childcare and early education opportunities. It empowered working mothers by providing their children with a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment. It was at HeartsHome that the beloved nickname “Dr. Kay” was born.

In 2000, Dr. Kay founded Innovations in Early Childhood Education, a consulting firm that specializes in curriculum development for children. Over her five-decade career, she reshaped foundational approaches to teaching, curriculum development, and classroom engagement. Her impact was seen through numerous publications and keynote addresses at conferences and the World Forum Foundation. Her contributions revolutionized early learning practices by placing children’s social and emotional growth at the forefront of educational strategies. Her research on child-centered teaching methods, play-based learning, and family engagement has influenced countless educators, scholars, and practitioners around the world.

In 2016, Kay returned to Lafayette, where she moved graciously into retirement. Her golden years were filled with global travels, cherished moments with family, gardening, and indulging in gourmet food and wine.

Dr. Kay is survived by her husband of fifty-one years, Larry Albrecht; sister Lou Montgomery; brother Michael Montgomery and wife Helena, brother Jes Montgomery; surrogate son Edward Turet; nieces and nephews Mary Sliman and husband Theo, Melanie Bienvenu and husband John, Joe Montgomery and wife Noelle, William Montgomery and wife Julie Ann, Jennifer Fiechtner and husband Robb, Elizabeth Conkright and husband John, James Montgomery and wife Sara, Katherine Prejean and husband Keith, John Smith III and wife Kim; and many great nieces and nephews.

Kay is preceded in death by her parents, Imogene and Mike Montgomery, her in-laws, June and Bill Albrecht, a niece, Elizabeth Montgomery, and great nephew, Cole Sliman.

A celebration of life will be held at the First United Methodist Church at 1:00 p.m. on January 11, 2025, where family and friends can gather to celebrate her extraordinary life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any organization that supports early childhood education initiatives, Hospice of Acadiana, or First United Methodist Church.

First United.

Methodist Church.

703 Lee Ave.

Lafayette, LA 70501.