Ronald Lee Kay

Ronald Lee Kay, 79, of Ripley, WV went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 16, 2026 following a long illness.

Ron was born August 20, 1946, in Jackson County, West Virginia, where he grew up surrounded by hills, hollows, and deep woods that would shape the rest of his life. Ron was married to the love of his life, Sandra Kay for 60 years.

Although he was a carpenter by trade, Ron had a lifelong passion for the outdoors, especially hunting. He was never happier than when he was in the woods. He had a special love for coon dogs-raising them, training them, and forming bonds only true hunters would understand. He could talk about a good dog the way some people talked about their children.

He also had a gift for growing things, He always had a full garden of vegetables. Ron could coax life out of the soil with patience and instinct that seemed almost effortless. His garden was a reflection of him-steady, hardworking, and full of quiet pride.

Ron was a storyteller in the truest sense. He could spin a tale about coon hunting or deer season that would have an entire room leaning in, hanging onto every word. His stories weren’t just entertaining-they were part of the fabric of who he was, stitched together from years of early mornings, late nights, good dogs, and good friends.

Above all, Ron will be remembered for being a grandfather. He loved his grandchildren deep and his love was unwavering. Whether he was sharing a story, offering advice, attending their sporting events, or talking them hunting with him. He gave them a sense of unconditional love and strength that will stay with them forever. His legacy lives in the woods he walked, the gardens he tended, the homes he built, the stories he told, and the family he loved with his whole heart.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Ronald Lee Kay, Jr. (Bubbie). He is survived by his wife, Sandra Kay; his children, Kelly (Tim) Saunders, and Scott (Donna) Kay; and his grandchildren Bobbi (Anthony) Nichols, Samantha (Ronnie) Batten, Amber (Ryan) O’Neal, Timothy (Kira) Robinson, Ronnie (Kyndrah) Robinson, Clifford (Katie) Kay, Colton Kay, Rebekah Kay, and Trey Kay. He also leaves behind several great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Well done my good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:23

Celebration of life arrangements will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ripley Christian Academy C/O Ron Kay- 112 Jackson Avenue- Ripley, WV 25271

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com