Reuben Kay Selch

A loving husband, father, grandfather, and community leader, Reuben Kay Selch, 81, a lifelong resident of Martinsville, gained eternal rest at 4:57 a.m. on Wednesday, October 29th, 2025. Kay, as he was known, was born on Tuesday, August 22nd, 1944, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was the son of the late Reuben Kenneth Selch and Mary Jane (Adkins) Selch.
Kay graduated from Martinsville High School with the Class of 1962, proudly calling himself a lifelong Martinsville Artesian. Immediately after graduation, Kay began a 36-year career with the Martinsville Daily Reporter, where his dedication and leadership led him to the role of publisher. He retired in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of love for his community and commitment to local journalism.
In addition to his newspaper career, Kay dedicated himself to public service. He was elected Mayor of Martinsville in 1979, serving from January 1980 through December 1983 and an elected County Councilman at Large. His love for Martinsville extended far beyond City Hall - he supported the Artesians faithfully, was a member of the American Legion Post #230, the Martinsville Elks Lodge #1349, a past member of the Martinsville Rotary Club, and was elected Master Councilor of DeMolay in his youth. Kay's hobbies reflected his enthusiasm for life and people. He enjoyed playing golf and tennis, shooting pool, traveling, antique shopping, and attending the Indianapolis 500.
Although his health in recent years limited some of these pastimes, he continued to cheer passionately for his favorite teams-the Chicago Cubs, Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, and Indiana Fever-as well as his beloved IU Basketball and Football teams. Above all, Kay cherished time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.
He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Kimberly Jane (Burleigh) Selch, whom he married on April 4, 1981; two sons, Chad (wife, Dana) Selch of Martinsville and Jared (wife, Jennifer) Selch of Mooresville; one daughter, Kaytie (husband, David) Barrett of Martinsville; and seven grandchildren whom he adored: Griffin (wife, Kimberly), Conner (wife, Emily), Ben, Avery, and Kyndall Selch, and Oren and Eleanor Barrett.
Along with his parents, Kay was preceded in death by his only brother, Oren Bolin.
The Selch family has chosen to honor Kay's final request for cremation followed with a Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering. The gathering will be held on Sunday, November 16th, 2025, from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm at the American Legion Post #230, 701 E. Morgan Street in Martinsville. Guests are encouraged to dress casually and wear their favorite sports team attire. Words of remembrance will be shared by family and friends beginning at 1:30 pm.
To honor Kay and his love for animals, the family has requested that contributions be made in lieu of flowers to the Morgan County Humane Society, 690 W. Mitchell Ave., Martinsville, IN 46151. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so at the Celebration of Life memorial gathering with monetary donations or unused pet care items, such as food, beds, chew toys, leashes, etc.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the Selch family online at www.nealandsummers.com Neal & Summers Funeral and Cremation Center has been entrusted with Kay's final arrangements.