Kay Jones

Kathyrn “Kay” Marie Jones, age 94, of Scotts, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her home on September 21, 2026. She was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on April 22, 1932, the daughter of Ward B. Sanford and Christine (Britton) Sanford.

In her early years, Kay was a homemaker, dedicating herself to caring for her family and raising her four daughters. She later worked at Dancer’s Department Store in Vicksburg before beginning a career with The Upjohn Company, where she served in the executive dining room. She retired from Upjohn in the late 1980s.

Kay married Jack Jones, whom she loved dearly until the day he passed away. Together, they shared 63 years of marriage and built a life centered around their family. Jack was a hardworking man who was skilled in carpentry and building, and he built their home on beautiful Indian Lake. It was there that Kay raised their four daughters while Jack worked. Their home, with the lake in front and the railroad tracks behind, would become the setting for countless family memories.

Raising four daughters in a one-bathroom home certainly gave Kay plenty of experience, and her family jokingly remembers that she sometimes had a tendency to cater to the boys more than the girls—grandchildren excluded. Her family remembers her ability to somehow balance raising four daughters with caring for her home, tending her gardens, sewing, baking and canning.

Kay took great pride in her gardens, especially her vegetables, which she would can and share with family. Her canned potatoes became a particular tradition, often being passed out as Christmas gifts. She loved baking cookies, sweet breads and homemade bread, and she was always happy to have a cookie herself. She also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, knitting, painting, ceramics, jigsaw puzzles, collecting Precious Moments and Beanie Babies. She made clothes for her daughters when they were young and gave piano lessons.

Music was another important part of Kay’s life. While in high school, she played piano in a band at various high school dances. Later in life, she continued to share her musical talents and played the organ during services at her church.

Kay was a longtime member of Scotts United Methodist Church. Missing church on Sunday was not an option for Kay. She was actively involved in church activities and the women’s group and participated in bake sales and rummage sales.

Kay had a gift for bringing people together. For decades, she hosted annual Fourth of July breakfasts at her home. Friends, neighbors and family would gather for the feast, knowing that if Kay was cooking, there would be plenty of homemade food. Those who came to her table could count on a delicious meal—and more than enough of it.

Kay loved being around people and enjoyed the company of friends and family. She took daily walks, stayed active and enjoyed spending time with others. She especially enjoyed nighttime pontoon rides on Indian Lake, watching the sunset with those she loved.

The lake was a special part of Kay’s life. She loved watching her daughters swim and learn to water ski and enjoyed seeing the younger generations do the same. Sitting on the front porch and enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake was one of her favorite pastimes. The trains that rolled by behind the house became part of the scenery as well. Building a home next to the railroad tracks may have initially seemed like a head-scratching decision, but the lake in front and the trains in back provided entertainment and fond memories for generations of family members.

After Jack’s passing, Kay found herself caring for another special companion, her little dog, Lilly. Lilly kept Kay on her toes and, much like Kay herself, was both feisty and loving. Kay’s nurturing nature was once again evident as she cared for Lilly’s special dietary needs, prepared her special food and took her on daily walks. Lilly quickly became a much-loved part of Kay’s life, and her family enjoyed seeing the two of them together.

Kay’s greatest accomplishment was her family. She poured her love, time and energy into raising her four daughters, who in turn gave her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The Jones family remains close, a testament to the bonds Kay created throughout her lifetime. She taught her family the importance of being together, caring for one another and making memories along the way.

Kay also enjoyed watching NCIS on Tuesday nights and Blue Bloods, especially watching Tom Selleck. She loved spending time with family during holidays and Sunday dinners, which were traditions that brought everyone together.

Kay is survived by her four wonderful daughters, Connie (Dave) Jones-Wagner, Chris (Bob) Schuiteboer, Cheryl (Mike) Guinn and Cindy (Mike) Veldkamp; her grandchildren, Katie (Steve) Scott, David (Shannon) Wagner, Kyle Guinn, Christopher Guinn, Jacki (Ken) Coburn, Jenni (Mike) Phillips, Jessica (Josh) and Julianna Veldkamp; Great-grandchildren, Tripp, Luke, Maddie, Carter, Harland, Emmett, Hendrik and Frankie, whom Kay adored more than anything. She is also survived by her sister, Carol Coppens, and brother, Fred Sanford.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters and one brother; and her beloved husband of 63 years, Jack Jones, who passed away in 2013.

In accordance with Kay’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will receive guests and visitors at the at Scotts United Methodist Church, 8458 Wallene Steet, Scotts, Michigan 49088, on Thursday, October 1, 2026 from 5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. The memorial service will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., the Pastor Joyce Vanderlip will officiate the service.

Kay will be laid to rest in a private committal service, next to her husband Jack, at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan.

Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Avenue, Three Rivers, Michigan, has been entrusted with her care.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Kay’s name are asked to consider Scotts United Methodist Church. Envelopes will be available at the service.

Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to gather and share in Kay’s memory.