Mary Lou Kay, born Mary Lou De Plaunty on May 22, 1943, in Detroit, Mich., passed away peacefully in her sleep in Holiday Island, Ark., February 17, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents George and Marie De Plaunty; siblings Roger (Elaine) De Plaunty, and William (Yvonne) De Plaunty.
She is survived by her loving husband of almost 61 years George J. Kay; their three daughters, Pamela Knutson (Mark), Sandra Kay, and Lisa Hausbeck (John); grandchildren Nicole Knutson, and Ashley Thieme (Josh); great-grandchildren Dominic Knutson, Annebelle Thieme and Ariana Thieme, as well as her sister, Lynda Earhart (Larry).
Mary married George J. Kay on October 13, 1962. They happily spent almost 61 years together. She affectionately referred to George by his childhood nickname “Skipper.” They were seldom apart. The couple was blessed with three daughters to whom she was a supportive and encouraging mother. Mary worked full time for many years at a variety of jobs. After years working in the health field, she eventually retired from her job working patient accounts for a local health clinic.
She was a truly beautiful soul. A woman of faith whose warm happy demeanor was ever present. She had a smile that lit up the room.
Mary always looked wonderful. Stunning fingernails, perfect hair, make-up, clothing and accessories were ever perfectly paired. Did I mention jewelry? She was sparkling every day. It was not unusual to find her sporting four rings on one finger! The more glitz the better.
Her interests were many. As a teenager she began sewing. She had a true talent for creating clothing of all types. Mary (Lou) made a beautiful homecoming dress for her sister, Lynda. This wonderful piece was one-of-a-kind a paisley like print with a beautiful metallic sheen atop a dark pink velvet empire-waist skirt. The thought of that dress warms Lynda’s heart to this day. Imagine her joy creating matching outfits for twins, Pam & Sandy, and her other beloved daughter, Lisa. This certainly is a great memory for all of us.
Mary also crafted a wedding dress for her daughter, Pam, as well as working with Lisa to create her special bridal gown. Those memories of collaborating with Mary will be cherished forever.
There are fond memories of her baking her almost world-famous pies (especially apple) and all sorts of cookies. Her love of plants and flowers was evident when you visited her home, full of an array of plants, so many African violets. She always appreciated receiving flowers; yellow roses were her favorite.
She loved her grandchildren and was so happy to see the arrival of her great-grandchildren. Mary also had an extreme affection for dogs, not only her pets but all dogs in general.
Her most treasured times were spent at her parent’s cottage on the shores of Lake Huron. Boating, fishing, sunbathing, beachcombing, spending time with family, fish fries, and just relaxing. It was a place to escape work and stresses of everyday life. She was at peace there. She requested to be cremated and have her ashes spread in Lake Huron. My father shares this wish, so when he passes away, we will have a combined celebration of life gathering, at Lake Huron, on a later date. Mary was and is loved. She will be greatly missed but is at peace with loved ones who have passed, and God.
Memorial services will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 201 Markham Center Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205.
Cremation arrangements under the direction of Nelson Funeral Service. Online condolences may be sent to nelsonfuneral.com. © Nelson Funeral Service, Inc. 2023.