Kay Louise Carter

Kay Louise Carter, born Kay Louise Kleinoeder, was born on September 4, 1945, in Sandusky, Ohio, to Richard and Amelia Kleinoeder. Raised on a farm in Ohio, she developed a strong work ethic, a spirit of adventure, and a curiosity about the wider world. Even as a young girl, Kay dreamed of traveling.

After graduating from the nursing program at the University of Toledo Hospital, Kay entered the United States Air Force and was stationed in North Dakota. She later served as a wartime nurse in Vietnam, offering compassionate care in difficult times and earning a Bronze Star for her outstanding service.

Following her service in Vietnam, Kay fulfilled a lifelong dream by traveling extensively throughout Europe. Upon returning to the United States, she worked as a clinical nurse at the renowned DeBakey Heart Hospital in Houston, Texas. Her dedication to military service led her to return to the Air Force being stationed in Columbus, Ohio.

There she met Doug Carter, who would become her husband and lifelong companion. After Doug returned from service in Southeast Asia, they married on November 25, 1972, beginning a 53-year marriage marked by devotion, partnership, and shared adventures.

Kay distinguished herself throughout her career in the United States Air Force Reserve, rising to the rank of Colonel and serving as a medical group commander. She earned the respect of her colleagues through her leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to those under her care.

Kay primarily resided in Beavercreek, Ohio, where she and Doug were dedicated to raising their three daughters, and she made many treasured friendships. She remained active, independent, and deeply engaged in the interests she loved.

Kay loved traveling throughout our country’s beautiful mountains and to Hawaii. Her hobbies included collecting and displaying her massive collection of beautiful rocks and minerals throughout her home, often sharing them with family. She was also a passionate Goodwill shopper and was devoted to making generous toy and clothing donations to shelters throughout the region.

Kay passed away on June 17, 2026. She is survived by her devoted husband, Doug Carter; her three daughters, Holly Linquist (Daniel), Kelly Schutt (Ben), and Ginger Miller (Rick Grabko); and her five beloved grandchildren, Tyler, Annika, Jane, Heidi, and Henry. She also leaves behind many friends and extended family members who will cherish her memory.

Kay's life was defined by devotion, service, courage, compassion, leadership, generosity, and adventure. Whether raising her girls, being a respected leader in the Air Force, traveling the world, spending time with extended family, or searching for a beautiful addition to her rock collection, she embraced life with enthusiasm and purpose. Her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched and in the love she shared with family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at Patterson Park Church on Thursday, June 25 with visitation at 10. Funeral services will be at 12:00. Graveside services will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project.