Michael “Mike” Douglas Kay

Michael “Mike” Douglas Kay passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, Missouri, surrounded by his family.

Mike was born on November 5, 1956, in Houston, Texas, to Raymond Lee and Mary “June” Kay. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Patty “Ann” Scantling.

He is survived by his two daughters, Fiona Jewel Taylor Gilson (Shane) and Sierra Nicole Brown-Kay; his sisters, Denise Schoennoehl and Cheryl Kay-Brown (Mike); his brother-in-law, Hsiang Yun Chen; five grandchildren: Mandy Theobald, Austin Gilson (Hailey), Dylan Gilson, Josiah Washington, and Matthias Jimenez-Kay; three great-grandchildren; as well as six nephews and one niece.

Mike graduated from Hickman High School in 1976, where he was a proud member of the wrestling team. He went on to serve honorably in the United States Marine Corps as a rifleman for six years. During his military service, he completed Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) School, became a certified open water diver, and served as a Drill Sergeant. He was stationed in both Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and San Diego, California, and approached his service with pride, discipline, and deep dedication.

Mike was known for his kind heart, generous spirit, and love of conversation—he truly never met a stranger. He had a passion for working on cars, and he enjoyed sharing stories, prayers, and laughter with those around him. An animal lover, he cherished the companionship of his pets. He also held fond memories of family fishing trips to Bennett Springs, MO during his childhood.

A man of faith, Mike believed deeply in the Lord Jesus Christ and often prayed for those he met.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Thursday, August 28, at 2:00 p.m. at:
Jacksonville Veterans Cemetery
1479 County Road 1675, Jacksonville, MO 65260

Following the service, a Celebration of Life gathering for family and friends will be held at D. Rowe’s Restaurant in Columbia, MO at 4:45 p.m.