It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jean Elizabeth Kay on September 7, 2026, at the age of 95 years old. She was a gentle woman whose warmth, humor and sweet nature touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Jean was born on January 1, 1931, in Lashburn Saskatchewan to William Gordon Atkinson and Hilda Agnes Bexfield. With her family she moved to Edmonton, Alberta where she trained at the YMCA, becoming a very successful competitive gymnast.
Throughout her life the YMCA played a very significant role. In 1952 she was given the opportunity to take her gymnastic talent and move to the Lethbridge YMCA to become the Girl’s Physical Director. It was at the “Y” in her new city that she met and married the love of her life, Jack Gordon “Gord” Kay. The YMCA continued to be a significant part of her life as an employee, competitive gymnast and ongoing supporter. She was also proud of her husband Gord who pioneered the sport of Olympic Weightlifting in Southern Alberta. Sadly, in 2001 Gord passed away.
In 1966 she earned her Certified Management Accountant designation, (CMA), and over the years worked in a variety of accounting positions, eventually becoming a proud and fiercely independent self-employed business woman. Throughout her life she generously supported numerous causes close to her heart including World Vision, SPCA and the Canadian Wildlife Federation.
Her love of the natural world was satisfied with fishing, golf, camping, horseback riding and her sweet little puppy, Mindy. An artist at heart, her creative impulse was expressed through painting, sewing, quilting and many other forms of handicraft. She was truly a bit of a renaissance woman!
Jean was one of four siblings, being survived by her sister Ethel Reid, and predeceased by her brother Fred Atkinson and sister Eileen Steer. She will lovingly be remembered by neighbors, colleagues, friends and family, all of whom cherished and were truly touched by her gentle, sweet nature.
Dearly loved and truly missed. May she rest peacefully.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM, on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at SOUTHMINSTER UNITED CHURCH, 1011 4 Ave S, Lethbridge, Alberta.