Zakiya "Kay" Palinski

1931 - 2020

Zakiya "Kay" Palinski

Lansing - Zakiya Mary Palinski, "Kay Eyde," born June 25, 1931, passed away on December 17, 2020.

Kay lived a life with faith and family at its center, while pursuing a variety of pioneering and meaningful career and civic endeavors.

She enjoyed a successful career in radio and television broadcasting, spanning nearly three decades at Michigan State University's WKAR. After beginning in radio, she helped the station transition to television with a variety of productions and on-air hosting positions including Bookmobile's Aunt Vickie, Ladies Time, Patio Party, and Trends & Views. She continued her connection to Michigan State University in the Department of Continuing Education as its first Director of Programs for Women.

Other highlights included her appointment by Governors Swainson, Romney and Milliken to the early Governor's Commissions on the status of women; many years of active involvement in the Right to Life Movement; years as a real estate broker at the Eyde Company; and a recent return to on-air with a series of vignettes for Good Shepherd Catholic Radio.

In Kay's words, the "best career" of her life was as wife to Eugene and mother to Christopher (Monica) and Carol (Alex). She is survived by her children and six grandchildren; brothers Lou (Marti) and Sam (Judy); sister Mary Ann, sisters-in-law Irene, Mary and MaryAnn, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, parents (Sam and Eva), and brothers (Richard, Patrick, George, and Michael).

Kay was grateful for good health throughout her life. A recent visit to the McLaren Greater Lansing Emergency Department revealed advanced cancer and the medical team's skilled intervention allowed her to enjoy a quality of life at home, surrounded by love and prayers of her family and friends near and far.

Prior to her passing, Kay arranged gifts to organizations close to her heart: Right to Life of Michigan, Brothers of Holy Cross and Saint Gerard School Scholarship Fund. Kay's hope is that those who cherish marriage and family life will continue their efforts in a peaceful world.

A small graveside service was officiated by Father Klein of Saint Gerard Catholic Church. A memorial celebration of her life is intended at a later date, when family and friends may gather. Online condolences may be made at www.EstesLeadley.com.