Kay Ellen Thomas

Kay Ellen Thomas, a beloved member of her community and cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at the age of 83, in Avon, Indiana. Born on November 24, 1942, in Indianapolis, Kay spent her life dedicated to her family, friends, and her work.

Kay had a distinguished career as a Regional Deli Manager, primarily working at Kroger before retiring from Publix. Even after her retirement, she continued to serve her community by working at the Speedway School Cafeteria and dedicating her time as a self-employed driver for dialysis patients, ensuring they were able to get to their medical appointments safely.

An ardent lover of learning, Kay attended Harry E. Wood High School, and throughout her life, she carried with her the values of kindness and generosity. Known to all as "Grandma Kay," she possessed an extraordinary ability to connect with others, often making friends wherever she went. Kay was always willing to help anyone in need, demonstrating a compassionate spirit that left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know her.

She derived her greatest joy from being surrounded by her family and friends. Holidays and gatherings held a special place in her heart, and she loved attending events like the Covered Bridge Festival. Kay was also an active presence on Facebook, where she enjoyed connecting with her loved ones. Her talents extended into the creative realm, where she found joy in crocheting, beadwork, and various crafts. Additionally, Kay spent countless hours on genealogy research of her family.

Kay’s greatest pride lay in her family. She is survived by her children, Clay (Rhonda) Temple, LaVonda Temple, Arlynda (Harry) Kinder, Ronald (Ruthie) Thomas, and Greg (Annamarie) Thomas. As a grandmother, she doted on Angela Rodriguez, Whitney Howell, Amber (Mark) Hatcher, Kara (Tommy) Toothman, Heather (Andrew) McLeish, Danielle (Nicki) Holman, Kyle (Chialisea) Haines, and Megan (Michael Morris) Morgan. Her legacy of love continues through her great-grandchildren, including Christiana Mujica, Jordan (Yesenia) Mujica, Ivan Caldera, Julian Caldera, Maali Morris, Michael Morris, Mylynn Morris, Jayla Hoskins, Madison Holman, McKenzie Holman, Kade Toothman, Raina Temple, Cole Hatcher, Colton Howell, Chandler McLeish, Abigail McLeish, Barett McLeish, William Holman, and Trinity Holman. Additionally, she leaves behind five great-great-grandchildren who will carry her memory forward.

Kay was preceded in death by her devoted husband Ronald Thomas, her son Roger Temple, and her granddaughter Marissa Temple and great granddaughter Audrey Howell. She also mourned the loss of her parents, John Shoemake and Pansy and Lewis (Nugent) Mink, who instilled in her the values she carried throughout her life.

Her visitation will be held on January 8, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and a funeral service will take place on January 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM, both at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Indianapolis, Indiana. She will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Washington Park East Cemetery.

The impact of Kay’s life is felt in every corner of those she touched. She was surrounded by love in life and, in passing, reflected the warmth she shared with everyone around her.

Kay Ellen Thomas will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever shine through in the hearts of her family and friends.