Kathlyn Gay Obituary (2022) – Elkhart, IN – The Elkhart Truth – Legacy.com

Kathlyn Ruth Gay, of Zion, Illinois, died in New Port Richey, Florida, on July 26, 2022; she was 92.

She was born on March 4, 1930, in Zion, Illinois, to Kenneth and Beatrice McGarrahan. Kathlyn spent her earlier years in Zion before marrying Arthur Gay (1925-2012) in 1948. They lived in Elkhart, Indiana, Ventura, California, and New Port Richey, Florida. They were married for over 64 years.

Kathlyn is survived by her younger brother, John Richard McGarrahan; her sons, Martin Gay and Douglas Gay; and daughter, Karen Hamilton; as well as her granddaughter, Nissa Gay. She was preceded in death by brothers Kenneth McGarrahan Jr. and James McGarrahan.

Kathlyn had several careers but her one true constant was writing. She began professionally writing in 1957 and went on to have 120 published books. Her writing covered controversial and poignant subjects from politics, race, religion, equality, justice, human behavior and global-environmental topics. She enjoyed traveling nationally and internationally by cars, trains, planes and ships. She wrote extensively about the excursions she took with Arthur, while her photo collections of each trip were organized perfectly. She enjoyed a good martini with her husband and friends while snacking on an assortment of goodies as part of their nightly routine of gathering, enjoying life and of course … debating.

Kathlyn was a pioneer and spoke out on issues that many would be scared to address. She was ahead of her time, passionate, feisty and fiercely outspoken. She will be dearly missed, and her memory will live on in those who loved her so. In honor of Kathlyn Gay, plant a tree, buy a book, or donate to your favorite non-profit. She would be proud.

Published by The Elkhart Truth on Aug. 5, 2022.