Katy Nalley
Apr 13, 1931 -
Feb 8, 2026
Heaven opened its gates to beloved Katy Nalley, age 94, in Anchorage, Alaska, on Feb. 8, 2026. Katy was endearingly called by some "little tyke," a personality punctuated with a fantastic sense of humor and quick wit. She was a beautiful lady of great refinement - well known for her gourmet dinner parties, immaculate table settings and excellent taste in everything from wine to art.
Katy was born in South Carolina on April 13, 1931. On Dec. 4, 1949, she married Doug Blankenship and went on to have three beautiful children: David, Julie and Wayne. During this time, Katy traveled the world and even spent a year in the "Little White House" in Tulsa.
In 1964, Katy married Max Nalley, which led her on an Alaska adventure during Max's career with Exxon. She fell in love with the beauty and close community of Alaska and decided to stay forever after Max passed away in 1988.
Over the years, Katy volunteered for numerous organizations, including serving as President of the Petroleum Wives Club and Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Center. Katy was most honored to serve as the Vice Chancellor of the Chaine DeRotissuers - a worldwide, exclusive gourmet club.
Katy married Roy Howard in 2002, which marked her final chapter in Alaska with many years of loving companionship, travel, music and memories made with friends and family.
Katy is survived by Roy Howard; children, Julie and Wayne; grandchildren, Kyle, Kari, Randi, Casey, Jeff and Amanda; and nine great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by Doug Blankenship, David Blankenship and Max Nalley.
Katy leaves a legacy of impact for all those who experienced her acts of service, her joy of cooking, her penchant for adventures on skis, traveling and exploration— but most of all, her love and good humor.
A celebration of life will be at the Petroleum Club of Anchorage on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.
There, we can share stories and a toast together in honor of Katy, "To lost friends and absent companions."
