Kay Fair Viall

Kay Eberhart Fair Viall, 77, of Ravenna, Ohio, passed away peacefully with family January 11, 2026. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend. She will be deeply missed by many.

Kay was born April 9, 1948, in Akron, Ohio. Kay spent her early years on East Thornton Street in downtown Akron with her parents Orville R. Fair and Ruth Eberhart Fair. Looking for a more rural upbringing, they built and moved to the Ellet Trailer Park. Kay learned sign language to communicate with residents at the park, played the organ, and sang beautifully.

From a young age, Kay had an incredible ability to heal and find homes for countless animals. Kay rode her horse, King, all over Springfield Township with her friends, often spending the entire day out on adventures. She was active in Summit County Horse 4-H. One of her favorite traditions was visiting Sun Beau Valley Farm to see the Portage County Charity Horse Show and All-Breed Dog Show.

Kay graduated from Springfield High School in 1966 and attended Kent State University. Kay finished her education at the Hammel Actual Business College in Akron. She worked in the Administration Department at Akron City Hospital, proudly witnessing changes in the workplace, including the moment nurses and staff were finally permitted to wear pants.

While at Kent State, Kay met Don, the love of her life. Their shared interests and love of horses grew into a lifelong partnership. Kay and Don married on June 8, 1973, at the United Methodist Church. Kay supported Don as he started the Ravenna Parks and Recreation Department. Together, they enjoyed many community programs, including dance lessons. They also built a photography business, raised and showed horses, and volunteered in many organizations including events at Sun Beau. Kay often spoke of a conversation in her youth with Don and Mr. Sterling Smith. Mr. Smith shared his plans to preserve the farm for the future.

After the birth of their daughter, Tiffany, Kay became a dedicated stay-at-home mother while continuing her lifelong role of caring for others and remaining deeply involved in the community.

Kay was a wealth of knowledge in the horse world. She helped with Akron Saddle Club, COSCA, The Ravenna Balloon A-Fair, and many other organizations. She worked with Light Horse Judging Team in Portage County and later became an advisor for the Foxy Trotters 4-H Club for over 35 years. Kay took joy in helping others begin their horse journeys, often making sure they had the clothing, tack, and sometimes horses they needed.

When the future of Sun Beau became uncertain, Kay and Don, along with their parents made the decision to purchase the farm. With the support of many family members and friends, they maintained and cared for it for nearly 30 years, a demanding, but deeply meaningful chapter of their lives.

In 2017, Kay finally became a grandmother, and Savannah was the joy of her life. Kay treasured the many hours they spent together, especially riding around Sun Beau on the golf cart, listening to Savannah sing.

After a lifetime of caring for others, it became Kay’s time to be cared for. Shortly before Balloon A-Fair in 2024, she became ill. She resolved to stay mentally strong for her family and quietly fought a courageous battle with cancer.

In her final months, Kay knew that her family could no longer maintain the farm she loved so dearly. Kay and Don made the difficult decision to sell Sun Beau. She was grateful to have worked with the City of Ravenna to ensure Sun Beau would be preserved for generations.

Preceded in death by her parents, Orville R. Fair and Ruth Eberhart Fair, Kay is survived by her husband of 52 years, Don Viall. Kay is also survived by her daughter and son-in-law Tiffany (Andrew) Rowley, granddaughter Savannah, and cousin Susan Eberhart. She also leaves several nieces and nephews and their families.

Kay’s family is forever thankful for the support, kindness, and prayers they have received.

In lieu of flowers, she wishes donations to be made to the Portage County Ag Society Jr Fair Horse Committee.

Friends and family will be received Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at the Wood-Kortright-Borkoski Funeral Home, 703 E. Main St., Ravenna. Private burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery in Twinsburg. Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com