Vay was born on July 24, 1951, to Keith Arnold and Clarel Jensen Amtoft. Vay married her sweetheart and best friend, David Elias Kocherhans in Washington, Utah, on September 26, 2009. Vay and David lived there until her passing on December 16, 2022, at the age of 71.
Vay lived most of her life in Centerfield and was known by everyone in the valley. Vay was so proud to be the mother of two sons, Tanner and Preston. She looked forward to her daily phone calls with her kids and grandchildren, and her best friends Virginia, Lori, and Judy. She was well known for her shenanigans, boisterous laugh, and larger than life personality. Her sense of humor and beautiful smile brought joy to all around.
Vay had several jobs in her younger years, but her favorite one was operating the Tip Top Club. Vay served her community in so many ways and affected the lives of everyone she came into contact with. Everyone talked about her time there and the holiday dinners. She always cooked a big Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner and made sure everyone had a place to eat. If you couldn’t get out to her, she brought you a plate. Vay was a fierce advocate and strongest supporter of her family and friends. She wouldn’t rest until she knew you were ok. Whether a phone call, a hot meal, a box of candy or even a box of diapers sent in the mail, she made sure you were taken care of. That’s just the type of person she was. She will always be remembered as the “best bouncer in Sanpete County.” Momma Vay never ended a phone call without telling you how much she loved you and how proud she was of your accomplishments.
Vay is survived by her husband, David, two sons, Preston (Carie) Duncan, Tanner (Sarah) Duncan, bonus children, DJ Kocherhans, James Kocherhans, and Jennifer Carter, and her “adopted daughter”, Michelle Hansen; Grandchildren, Hannah, Katie, Garrett, Kayzlee, Mack, Sierra Brinkerhoff, Jared (Briana) Duncan, Kole, Bradley, Lara and Kara; three great-grandchildren, and one more on the way. Sister, Karen (Jose) Perez, nephew Karsten (Kelly) Sorenesen, niece Kallei (Ken) Miller, and their children, Madison, Kenzie, Lauren, Jana, and Natalie.
Vay is preceded in death by her parents, Keith and Clarel, and an infant brother, Roddie.
A celebration of life will be held at a further time.
Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. 435-673-2454. Family and friends are invited to leave a memory on Vay’s obituary page at
www.spilsburymortuary.com