THEODORE GEORGE KAYS's Obituary
Theodore George “Rocky” Kays peacefully passed away on July 16, 2026 surrounded by loving family and friends. Born on January 27, 1934, in Miami, Florida, he was the son of the late Angelo and Mary Kays. A pillar and devoted member of the community, Ted graduated from Miami Senior High School and received a degree in Business from the University of Miami. His acumen in enterprise led him to a career in finance. Ted was the Vice President of Central Bank of North Dade then became a Vice President at Hanover Bank. His diverse interests led him to help transform the historic Ranch House restaurants into the thriving Neighbors Restaurant franchise. The ultimate gentleman with a flair for fashion, upon retirement, was affiliated with the Cambridge Shop of Coral Gables with a loyal following. His love for the community also led to a position in finance at the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair. He worked with local election officials to ensure voting integrity.
As a devoted Orthodox Christian, Ted was a life-long parishioner of Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Along with his wife Mary Alice, who has served as Choir Director for 35 years, he helped build the thriving community that exists today. As a member of the Parish Council, he served as treasurer, was chairmen of the festival album, and was responsible for the festival’s finances. The pinnacle of his Christian life was when he was bestowed the honorary title of Archon of the Order of Saint Andrew of the Apostle. This is the highest honor that can be awarded to a laymen by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople. Proud of his Greek heritage, he served as the Miami Chapter No. 14 secretary and president of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association, the largest and oldest association of Americans of Greek heritage.
With a magnetic personality, people were easily drawn to him and valued friendships were formed. Ted’s zest for life was one of his most beloved characteristics, as well as his sense of humor and infectious laugh. This gracious and kind man was timeless.
Ted was predeceased by his parents and sister Penny Angleton. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Mary Alice; adoring niece Marina Angleton Petkas and her husband Jim; great nephew Theodore James Kallergis, his wife Marisel and great great niece and nephew Mae and George Kallergis; sister-in-law Celeste Alexander, her husband Stephen and nephew Ian Alexander; brother-in-law George Andrews; Joy, his precious Maltese; nephew James Angleton Jr, his wife, Connie and great nieces Amelia and Kathryn Angleton; numerous special godchildren and friends.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 23rd from 5-8 PM with a Trisagion at 7 PM at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 24th at 11:30 AM at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Internment will follow at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn Park Cemetery North (8th Street).
The family wishes it express its gratitude to Dr. Ariel Moses, Dr. Abbe Rosenbaum, and the entire medical staff at Miami Comprehensive Medicine and MyCardiologist for their care and compassion over the past several years.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Saint Sophia Cathedral Choir. Arrangements are in the care of Van Orsdel Funeral and Cremation Services, 4600 SW 8th Street.
May his memory be eternal.
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