Kay M. Wilson

Kay Marynel Wilson, age 84, of Benton Harbor, died peacefully Sunday, July 11, 2021, in the comfort of her family’s presence.

She was born June 2, 1937 in Bay City, Michigan to Harold and Nellie Belle Rowell.

In addition to being a beautiful mother raising two wonderful children, Kay was ‘the great woman’ behind the scenes supporting her late husband, John Wilson’s career in the arts. Kay was instrumental in the day-to-day activities that made Lakeside Studios a welcoming retreat to local and international artists for over twenty-five years at their home in Lakeside, Michigan. Kay also played an integral part in the production and operation of the inaugural Chicago International Art Exposition at Navy Pier. Imagine fifteen years of renting Navy Pier for two weeks in May and assembling galleries from sixty-five countries for a five-day art show open to the public. She kept the books - and everyone in line.

While Kay traveled the world, dined with royalty, and danced with diamonds on the soles of her shoes, it was her dear friends and family that remained her priority. Her sweet sensitivities made her a natural companion for animals of all kinds. She often cared for strays, taught her cats to walk on a leash, and in her later years, faithfully fed and watched the flock of turkeys that made their second home in her back yard. Her love of nature was reflected in her great love of her husband John's traditional pots and Japanese Ukiyo-e prints. Kay lived a charmed life full of good times.

Her infinite kindness, resolute strength, and sly wit will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by her daughter, Laurie Wilson of Benton Harbor; son, John David (Susan Edwards) Wilson, Jr.; grandsons, Randy (Sian) Deaton of Lakeside, Eric Deaton of Benton Harbor; and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of fifty-six years, John David Wilson, Sr.; and her brother, Richard Rowell.

A private remembrance will be held by the family in her honor.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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