When I received the call that Mary Kay had passed, it was almost unbelievable that she was gone and I was deeply saddened.  She was such a part of my childhood and it brought back so many wonderful memories that wouldn't exist if not for Kay Kay, as we called her.

I grew up across the street from Kay and my second family, the Kaisers.  Kay's parents, Thelma and Ray, were my godparents and I spent time in their care on several occasions, once right after I was born when my mother needed surgery.  Although Kay was a few years older than me, she always included me and we spent a lot of time playing together as kids.  

Oh, the wonderful song and dance productions we created!  We would spend countless hours dressing up (thanks to Thelma for the endless wardrobe!), and we would find a record with a song we liked and practice dance moves until we were in sync and had the show ready to premiere.  The audience was of course, Thelma, Ray and Carol.  We always got rave reviews!

I recall one production in which we had full-length black gloves and flowing garments, and now that I think about it, probably resembled a bit of a strip tease as we took off the gloves and swung them around.  And of course, Kay would sing her heart out.  We always recall her singing, something I also loved, so that may be one of the reasons we got along so well.  Truth be told, she was the real creative force behind our productions and I always remember how much fun she was.

Another fond memory I have growing up in the “neighborhood” was Halloween. Thelma was always the cackling witch that climbed up the carob tree that had grown at an angle to the ground making it easy to walk up the main trunk.  But not everyone expected a grown woman to come down out of a tree and give them a fright.  All the more fun!  And of course Kay would be dressed up and stirring the eyeball soup or some such thing in a caldron over a fire.  When we were small we all went trick or treating together and it seemed everyone was out and dressed up, including many of the adults.  But it wouldn't have been the same without the Kaisers!  I've attached an old picture I found of  us out trick or treating in 1959 -  Mary Kay (the gypsy), me in the middle, and my older sister Karen, the mummy.

Over the years we would catch up at the special events in our lives, weddings, baby showers, and Jeff's famous Christmas parties.  It's hard to imagine she won't be at the next one, but I know she was welcomed to the other side by her mom and dad and I can only imagine the fun they are having.  

I'm sure that everyone that knew and loved Mary Kay will miss her.  I know I will.

A light has definitely gone out of the world, a force of life and energy.  When I think of Kay, I see a smile and bright eyes, hear a laugh...and something funny coming out of her.  She was so much fun and such a big part of my life for so long. We shared many crazy moments, and some very special ones, too....most especially, the arrival of Casey Rae.  Reading the other entries, it's no surprise that Kay played an important part in many people's lives....she truly was bigger than life which made it all the more sad and shocking to hear of her loss.  My love and sympathy to all of her family...I hope you are finding comfort.

I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Kay had such a profound and positive impact on so many lives, mine included.  Knowing her was a blessing filled with tough love, laughs and thoughtful guidance. Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are all in my heart and prayers.  I am thinking of you during this difficult time and I hope that the love of those around you will help you through the days ahead.  May God comfort you and bless you all with peace.   With Love and sincerest sympathy, Shannon.

My condolences to the entire Mangone/Kaiser family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Even though it has been many years, I have wonderful memories of spending time in Kay's home growing up. Kay was always warm and welcoming. She showed all of us girls Motherly Love and treated us all like we were part of the family. I pray that God's love brings you comfort and strentgh during this heartbreaking time. Love & Hugs ~ Shawna Sterne-Martinez

Kay, so sorry for your passing. It was always fun to see you out and about. I miss the old times we shared. May you rest peacefully.

Kay,  I am still at a loss for words. Only a few people will know what kind of a role you played in my life and I am forever grateful for you and your family for that. My heart is broken, knowing how many people are missing you and how much of an impact you always made on everyone you came in contact with. I'm so glad I got to see your smile  again before I moved away and I will hold that memory with me whenever I think of you. Lots of love to you. ~ Jess

You were always so much fun.  I loved your free spirit even though you had a lot on your plate.  You helped me through a very tragic time in my life and I thank you for that.  Unfortunately we didn't stay in touch after I remarried and moved away.  I did see Carol occasionaly and of course, meant to try and contact you--life always gets in the way of good intentions.  My very best to Casey and the rest of the family-a fond memory of Casey is when she tried to describe to the policeman about her stolen rabbit--"him's got big Pink ears".  Ahh, the wonderful memories.  Girl, you have been redeemed-God welcomes you home.  Love always, Vicki Carmack Dunn

You will be sorely missed, our old friend Kay from Honeywell.  Bev Landaal and Darlene Frain

Kay, you will be missed! I miss our weekly "can Hannah come over on Wednesday" phone calls! You were so full of live, it's so hard to imagine that you are gone. Thanks for hanging with Hannah!!

Kay played a key role in my life as a teen. As a young woman, she guided me and as a Mother myself, she supported me, My family and I were shown a very kind love from her. Kay will be missed by so many. The Mangone Family are beautiful people. Dear God, please hold them especially close and walk with them through their grief.

Kay.....you have had a special place in my heart since you and Janis took me "under your wings" when I was 19 years old.  I will truly miss you my friend and will be forever greatful for the things you taught me (good and bad!) and thankful for the wonderful friendship we have always kept through the years. It breaks my heart to lose someone so special to me...... but I do know I will see you again some day.  I love you, Kay Mangone.......Julie Brown Glenn

We shared alot in the years, mostly in the dental chair. Kay aways did her tasks with spirit of love and generosity. God bless the family, we need to celebrate the many blessings and what a difference she made in our lives.

OBITUARY

Mary Kay Mangone

April 3, 1953 – September 24, 2012

A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Mortuaries Bethany Chapel

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