Mary Rita Kay

Mary Rita Kay (Reddy), a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother, passed away on October 15, 2025, in Boston after a long battle with cancer. Born in 1948 in Dorchester, MA, to Paul and Rita Reddy, Mary was a longtime resident of Quincy and embraced life with warmth and kindness.

Mary's early years were spent in Dorchester, and she later moved to Ohio, where she would meet John Kay, her devoted husband of 56 years. Together, they built a life rich in love and family.

An avid knitter and a talented quilter, Mary had a passion for crafting that was evident in the beautiful pieces she created. Her home often buzzed with laughter and joy as she entertained friends and family, making each gathering a cherished occasion. Beyond her creative pursuits, Mary found great enjoyment in reading, golfing, and participating in activities with her many neighborhood friends. One of her fondest traditions was the annual trip to Lake Morey in Vermont, where memories were made and friendships deepened. Mary volunteered at the Talking Information Center (TIC) in Marshfield where she read newspapers and other print materials for the visually impaired to be broadcast over the special TIC radio receiver. 

Mary leaves behind her beloved husband, John Kay; her two daughters, Jacqueline Kay (George Palmer) of Whitman and Jennifer Brussard (Tom) of Easton; and her son, John (Louise) of Madison, Maine. She was a proud grandmother to Emily and Chloe Kay, and Tessa and Amelia Brussard, who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her sister, Jeanne Flight of Fairhaven, and was pre-deceased by her brothers, Robert and Paul.

Mary will be dearly missed not only by her family but also by her dear friends and community. Her presence brought comfort and happiness, and she will be remembered with love and respect by all who knew her. In particular, her canine companion, Rosie, will mourn the loss of her cherished friend. Mary’s legacy of love, creativity, and connection will live on in the hearts of those she touched throughout her life.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Sunday 10/19/2025 from 1-4 PM in the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., QUINCY. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:45 AM on Monday 10/20/2025 prior to the Funeral Mass in St. Ann’s Church, Quincy at 10:30 AM. Cremation will follow. See www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be made to support The Cancer Center at Massachusetts General Hospital. Checks can be made payable to Massachusetts General Hospital with "in memory of Mary Kay” in the memo line and sent to Mass General Hospital, Development Office, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 540, Boston MA, 02114 or visit giving.massgeneral.org.to make your gift online.