Kay Irene Tomes

Kay faced every challenge with grace and determination. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandma and friend, whose strength, kindness, and love touched everyone who knew her. She will be remembered for her loving heart, unwavering support for family and friends, and the joy she brought into the lives of others.

Born on July 11, 1955, in Flint, Michigan, Kay was the daughter of Lloyd and Marie (Bennett) Bell. In 1973, she graduated from Goodrich High School and shortly after in 1975, married the love of her life, Norman.

After relocating from Michigan to Florida in 1985, Kay worked locally as a receptionist for Dr. Charles Peter before helping manage the family business, Bay Tech Optical, alongside Norman for 26 years. But her greatest joy was her family. She poured her heart into raising her children and later into being a hands‑on, dependable, and loving grandmother.

For the past 51 plus years, Kay and Norman shared a desire for camping and traveling the country. They joined Tri‑County Camping Club and Sunny Palms Camping Club. Here, Kay met so many friends who became more like family over the years. Traveling and exploring different regions of our beautiful country with her family was one of her favorite passions. Kay also enjoyed gardening, relaxing by the pool or beach, and sitting by a campfire. But nothing meant more to her than time with her grandchildren — school pickups, family gatherings, or any moment they were together. She brought warmth, comfort, and love to every moment.

Kay is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Norman; her children, Bridgette Tomes, Elizabeth (Ryan) Duck, and Benjamin Tomes; her sister, Connie (Norman) Nicklas; and her treasured grandchildren, Miles King, Liam Duck, Addison Duck, and Grayson Duck. She also leaves behind many extended family members and lifelong friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her infant twin brothers, Darrell and Dale Bell.

A gathering to honor and celebrate Kay’s beautiful life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until the Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in her memory.

Kay’s final journey may have carried her beyond our sight, but those who loved her will always picture her where she was happiest — at home with Norman, her children, and her grandchildren gathered around her.