Kay has spent her life caring for others, a path that led her from teaching and social work to ministry. Today, she continues her calling at 10 Wilmington Place, where she has built meaningful friendships and stays actively involved.
From Detroit Roots to a Life of Service
Growing up in northwest Detroit, Kay attended Redford High School before earning a degree in education from Central Michigan University and teaching first grade. Wanting to expand her impact, she returned to school for a master’s degree in social work. She then felt called to ministry, which ultimately led her to seminary in Georgia. After three years of study, including learning New Testament Greek and Hebrew, she became the pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Deckerville, Michigan, making history as the first female minister in the town. “They weren’t used to having a woman,” says Kay. “But we got that straightened out.”
A New Chapter in Dayton
Kay later felt called to Westminster Presbyterian Church in downtown Dayton, where she served for 12 years as the Associate for Pastoral Care and developed a deep appreciation for the community. Her mother eventually became a resident at 10 Wilmington Place. “My husband and I would come visit and have dinner here with her every Friday,” Kay reflected, allowing herself to become familiar with the welcoming environment and care of 10 Wilmington Place. Kay is a mother herself, with three children, two stepchildren, and thirteen grandchildren who live nearly coast to coast.
Choosing 10 Wilmington Place
Through her years in ministry, Kay frequently visited parishioners in nursing homes and senior living communities, giving her valuable perspective when it came time to choose her own next chapter. At 10 Wilmington Place, it was the people who stood out most.
Staying Engaged and Giving Back
Even in retirement, Kay continues to look for ways to support others. She has found a fitting role serving on the Wellness Committee at 10 Wilmington Place where she writes notes and welcomes residents back from hospital stays. She attends exercise classes twice a week, enjoys Switch bowling, guest speakers, and musical performances, and loves teaching fellow residents how to play her favorite card game, 500 Rummy.
Enjoying the Everyday Comforts
Kay appreciates the variety and quality of dining at 10 Wilmington Place, especially the soups and fish, and enjoys having multiple entrée choices each day. She also values the everyday moments that make life feel full, like stopping to connect with residents in the hallway or adding personal touches to the rooms.
Words of Wisdom
When offering advice to others considering senior living, Kay encourages families to take their time and pay attention to how a place feels. “It’s clear 10 Wilmington Place is family-owned,” she said. “That feeling of home and family makes all the difference.”
Finding Home in Community
Guided by compassion, faith, and a lifelong commitment to service, Kay has found a home at 10 Wilmington Place where she can continue living out her values while enjoying friendship, support, and peace of mind.
Curious about life at 10 Wilmington Place?
Come see for yourself why residents like Kay say they've found more than just a place to live, but rather they have found a home. Schedule your tour or give us a call at (937) 253-1010 to learn more.
