Louis Edward Kay

On October 13, 2024, at the age of 85, Louis Edward Kay passed away at his home. Born on April 11, 1939, at Hotel Dieu Hospital in New Orleans, LA, he was the son of Louis Benoit Kay and Alma Elizabeth Weinnig. Louis spent his childhood in New Orleans’ Lower 9th Ward, where he had many adventures with his lifelong friend, Rudy Esser. He graduated from Nicholls High School in 1956.

Louis explored a wandering path of academics, initially attending Southeastern Louisiana University for music but discovered he did not have an ear for it. He spent a winter in Minnesota working as a paraprofessional in the school system, and he later studied pre-med at Louisiana State University at New Orleans but found he did not have a passion for medicine. Ultimately, in 1978, Louis earned an Associate’s Degree in Electronics Services Technology from Delgado Community College.

Throughout his career, Louis held various positions, including working as an oxygen technician at Charity Hospital during the late 1950s and 1960s. He worked at WYLD and WSHO transmitter stations in New Orleans and Marrero, LA. He later worked at Sun Television Repair Shop on Downman Road in New Orleans East where he met close friend Frank Gelpi. He went on to work at WRNO Worldwide radio transmitter station in Marrero with his longtime friend Jack Bruce. Louis was also employed as a quality control inspector for Powertronic Systems in New Orleans.

Louis cherished his travels across the country. He explored America with his friends Paul and Joan Grumbine, as well as with his younger brother Richard Kay and lifelong friend Henry Nuss. One of his proudest moments was taking his parents in a Volkswagen Beetle to see the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. He also hiked the Grand Canyon with his brother Richard and sister-in-law, Alorna. Later, with his wife and daughter, Louis enjoyed exploring the Smoky Mountains, a variety of northeastern states, the Rocky Mountains, the Grand Canyon and multiple southwestern states. 

In 1979, Louis married Pamela Amy Johnson at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in New Orleans. They moved to Marrero in 1982 to start their family, and in 1986, they welcomed their daughter, Michelle. Becoming a father was Louis' proudest moment, and in 2019, the birth of his grandson, Oliver brought him immense joy.

Louis will be remembered by his family and friends as an intelligent, kind, and gentle man who never raised his voice. He had a love for reading and playing chess and found a longtime friendship with Robert Ballard, whom he met through the Chess Club of New Orleans. Louis was a lifelong student and enjoyed sharing his wealth of knowledge with those that knew him. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Pamela Amy Johnson, who was his light and his inspiration; his daughter, Michelle Kay Triche (Daniel); his beloved grandson, Oliver Emerson Triche; his brother, Richard George Kay (Alorna); his niece, Thaïs Kay Cuffy (Marlon); and his godchild and nephew, Richard Benoit Kay, and his great nephew Chase.

 The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to pulmonologist Dr. William Borron and his staff, especially Charlene, whose care, compassion, and friendship meant so much to Louis and his family. Louis also shared his joy of reading with Dr. Meda Colvin and playing chess with her son, Emmanuel.

Arrangements are yet to be determined.

MOTHE FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family during this difficult time. The family encourages you to share thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at www.mothefuneals.com.