Robert "Paul" Kay Jr.

May 10, 1958 - May 9, 2024

Paul passed away on May 9, 2024 at the age 65, surrounded by the love of his family. Paul was born on May 10, 1958 in Memphis, Tennessee. Together with his Father, Mother, and Sister, he moved to Lakewood, WA in 1965. Paul had a passion for many things in life. First and foremost, his family, his four legged family, The Beatles, The Tennessee Vols, Military History, Stand-Up Comedy, Music Concerts, Travel, and the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Paul's love of travel led him to sharing many wonderful adventures with his wife and two sons. Trips to Liverpool England, to NASA to see the Space Shuttle Launch in 2011, to New York, Historical sites across the USA, Hawaii, and several trips focused on sharing his love of music, highlighted their experiences together.

Paul graduated from the University of Puget Sound with a BA in History/Economics. He went on to get his teaching credentials at Saint Martin's University and received a Master's Degree in Military History from Norwich University. Paul had a long and successful teaching career, teaching English, History, and Reading. Additionally, he enjoyed being a debate and chess coach. Paul was a compassionate, kind, and caring educator, who believed all of his students had unique gifts and talents. He encouraged each student to explore and grow in the things they loved, in service of their future goals.

Paul published four children's books and has written several more. His children's books reflect his subtle sense of humor and infectious love of what nature and all living creatures offer us. Paul will be fondly remembered for his quick wit, his compassion for others, and his vast knowledge on a wide variety of subjects. Paul could always be counted on as an attentive and patient listener, something we will all dearly miss.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Paul Kay Sr. and Doris Hurst Kay. Paul is survived by his loving wife Linda, his sons William and Michael, sister Rebecca, nephews Brett (Mia), Brian (Mercedes), and nieces Donna (Ben), Paula (Anthony), and Sara (Jordan). In addition, Paul has six great-nieces and nephews, Marcela, Brody, Cooper, Ellie, Gracie, and Sophie.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to a local animal rescue, a children's charity of your choice, or cancer research.