November 15, 1938 – November 1, 2025
James Joseph Kay, Jr., 86, passed away at his home in Sheridan, on Saturday morning, November 1, 2025. Born November 15, 1938, in New Bedford, Mass., he was the son of the late James Joseph Kay, Sr. and Eugenia (Peckham) Kay.
James proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Air Force, choosing to enlist immediately after graduating from high school. He later worked for Biddle Screw Products in Sheridan before retiring from the company after 40 years of dedicated service.
Everything James did in life was done with his family in mind; to him, there was nothing more important. At some point he and his wife Shirley caught the travel bug. They loved exploring new destinations and finding special places along the way. Over the years, his love of hitting the open road was passed down to his grandchildren. Their yearly summer adventures with Grandpa (and Grandma) not only gave them wonderful memories, but a wonderful tradition to pass along to their own families. James also loved sports. Baseball, football, and basketball were some of his favorites, but he would give any sport a fighting chance. If the kids or grandkids were involved in a sport, it instantly made the list of favorites.
James had quite a creative spirit, and his talents were always used for the benefit of those he loved most. He loved to cook as well as bake. His fresh baked bread was always a family favorite, but Easter is where the real magic happened – homemade Easter candy, every child’s dream come true, no matter their age. He was an accomplished sewer as well, making baby blankets for every grandchild, not to mention the countless Halloween costumes that were made throughout the years. James also enjoyed reading and needlepoint.
He was a simple man of faith and a true family man.
James is survived by his three daughters, Emily C. Steen, Waveland, Ind., Kathryn M Kincaid, Indianapolis, and Linda Gail Minnicus (Tim), Sheridan; six grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; brother, Russell Kay, Huntsville, Ala.; brother-in-law, Wilbur Biddle of Florida; and two sisters-in-law, Effa Greeno (Don) and Rena Biddle, both of Pickard, Ind.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Joseph Kay, Sr. and Eugenia (Peckham) Kay; two sons, Mark Anthony McGuire and Joseph Patrick Kay; daughter, Donna Wilson; sons-in-law, Brian Kincaid and Joe Wilson; sister-in-law, Suzanne Biddle; grandson, Eric Wilson; and by his loving wife, Shirley May (Biddle) Kay on December 14, 2021. She and James were married on August 18, 1961.
A Celebration of James’ life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Kercheval Funeral Home, 306 E. 10th St., Sheridan, with visitation from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Pastor George Cooper will be officiating.
James will be laid to rest at Crown View Cemetery in Sheridan at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be presented to Riley Hospital for Children.
Condolences: kerchevalfuneralhome.com