Charles Ray Kay (Plainview)

Charles Kay, 89, went to his eternal home Wednesday, August 17, 2016 in Lubbock, Texas. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 A.M Monday, August 22, 2016 at the Grace United Methodist Church with Rev. Kyle Brock officiating. Arrangements are under the care of Kornerstone Funeral Directors of Plainview. A visitation will be held on Sunday, August 21, 2016 from 4 to 6 P.M. at Kornerstone. Charles was born on March 17, 1927 in Garven County, Oklahoma to O.V. and Minnie Kay. He spent his early childhood in Oklahoma before moving to Hale County in the late 1930’s. He began working at an early age to help the family with finances. Charles served his country during WWII in the Merchant Marines. He married Margaret Gaines on March 12, 1946 in Plainview. After his service to his country, he owned a butcher shop, grocery store, and a restaurant for several years. He later began farming and farmed in the area for 40 years. He was instrumental in helping consolidate local independent cooperatives eventually forming United Farm Industries now known through many mergers as Ag Producers Coop. He also donated his time serving local and regional interests often times in the capacity of president. A few of those cooperatives include Houston Bank of Cooperative, Golden Spread Electric Coop, and Swisher Electric Coop. Charles was known for his generosity and it knew no bounds. He also encouraged young people starting their careers with time and finances. He loved to travel and spend time at their condo in Red River, NM with family. He also loved attending his grandchildren’s games and activities no matter how far away or how short or long the activity was. Charles was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church where he served on many boards and taught a Sunday school class. He is preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Kay; parents, O.V. and Minnie Kay; four sisters and three brothers. Charles is survived by two daughters, Karen Royal and husband L.A. of Edmonson, Glenda Kay of Dallas; two brothers, Paul Kay of Altus, OK, Bob Kay of Dimmitt; one sister, Gloria Kennedy of Amarillo; four grandchildren, Jeremy Royal and wife Jenna of Richardson, Aaron Royal and Linda of Lubbock, Quincy Sorrels of Dallas, Avery Sorrels of New York, NY; and three great grandchildren, Courtney Royal of Lubbock, Amelia Royal, and Harrison Royal of Richardson. The family would like to express their gratitude to Area Community Hospice and special caregiver Evonne Franklin for their loving care. The family suggests memorials to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Area Community Hospice Foundation, 4300 Olton Rd, Plainview, Texas 79072, or any charity of your choice.