Lee University mourns loss of coach and professor Kay McDaniel
Coach and Professor Kay McDaniel / Lee University
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Lee University community is mourning the loss of long- time coach and professor, Kay McDaniel.
McDaniel served as Lee University’s tennis coach, and was also a health science professor.
She passed away just as preparations for the spring semester were underway.
“Kay was an unforgettable person, with exceptional skills and the true heart of a champion.”
–Lee President Paul Conn
McDaniel, who joined Lee University in 1991, was well-known for her career both on and off the court.
She coached the university’s tennis teams, taught health science, and ran free summer tennis clinics for more than three decades.
McDaniel’s passion for tennis began at age 11 with a Green Stamp racket she earned by collecting 5,000 stamps.
Her dedication and talent led her to become the nation’s top-ranked amateur, play at the No. 1 position for Louisiana State University, and compete professionally at tennis’ Grand Slam tournaments for six years.
She faced legends like Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, and Steffi Graf, achieving a top 35 world ranking in singles and a top 20 ranking in doubles.
After retiring from professional tennis, McDaniel started teaching and coaching at Lee University.
Even as health challenges forced her to retire from teaching, she continued hosting the clinics, supported by a team of over 40 instructors, welcoming 400 participants each summer.
A memorial service to celebrate McDaniel’s life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of Companion Funeral Home, and visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
