Kay Maxine Suddath

Kay grew up in a small town in rural Kansas. Kansas remained integral to her life in many ways from an affinity of sunflowers to avidly following KU basketball. Kay had an early love of learning and was an excellent student. She was valedictorian of her graduating class, a class officer, acted in plays, wrote in the school paper and a member of band and chorus. Kay was also active in 4-H and church in her youth and played the organ at church.

Kay attended Kansas State her first two years of college, it was here she met lifelong friend Marilyn Reynolds. Kay finished her education degree at Kansas University. While attending KU she met her husband Jim on a blind date organized by friends. They married soon after she graduated and recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary.

Kay thoroughly enjoyed her career as a teacher of 37 years. Her first teaching job was in Leewood, Kansas. Then as Jim’s work moved them around she had turns in Park Forest, Illinois; Garden Grove, CA; San Jose, CA; Caruthers, CA and finally at American Union Elementary. While in San Jose, she met her dear friend Alice Parker. Many friends came from her time at American Union but she had a special connection to Judi Nagel Camaroda and also carpool buddy, Steve Moe. In addition to teaching, when Jim’s work took them to Grand

Canyon for 2 1/2 years, Kay worked as a secretary in the construction office.

Kay’s life was one of dedication, caring & service. She was a tireless 4-H leader, worked countless elections as poll volunteer, after retirement spent afternoons tutoring children & manned the church food bank for many years. Kay was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church and a former member of Hope Lutheran Church. A member of both the California Reading Association and American Association of University Women (AAUW), it was with AAUW Kay and Jim enjoyed playing in a monthly couples bridge group for many years. Kay was also a member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) She was initiated in 2000 and served on the membership committee and president of her chapter. Kay played in several P.E.O. bridge groups and had a close friendship with P.E.O. sister Claudia Sersland.

Kay’s family was her biggest joy. She was elated when she finally became a great-grandmother to Griffin in 2022. Kay is survived by her husband Jim; daughters Jill and Kara; sons-in-law José and Ken; grandchildren Joslyn & her husband Nick, Jared & Jacob; great-grandson Griffin; nephew David Kriegh and wife Bobbie; and niece Gloria Ford and husband Mike.

A big thanks to 4-H and church friend Barbara Cowart. Barbara’s support during Kay’s illness was invaluable and a great gift. The family would also like to thank Kay’s longtime caregiver Marilyn Lanctot and more recently Mary Coelho, their patience, diligence and kindness while tending to Kay are greatly appreciated. Lastly the family would like express their gratitude to their team from Hind’s Hospice for their amazing care, respect and compassion during Kay’s final weeks.

A Memorial Service for Kay will be held Saturday October 26, 2024, 10:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 4672 N. Cedar Ave., Fresno, CA 93726.

Memorial contributions can be made to Fresno County 4-H or Fresno State’s Children’s Library. Donations by mail: Fresno County 4-H, 550 E. Shaw Ave. Suite 210-B, Fresno, CA 93710 or Remembrances made to Fresno State: Checks payable to Fresno State Foundation (memo section Arne Nixon Center-Kay Suddath),

Fresno State/Advancement Services, 5241 N Maple TA45, Fresno, CA 93740.

Family and friends are invited to view Kay’s legacy at www.whitehurstsullivan.com and share

fond memories and expressions of sympathy.