Mary Kathleen Folsom

Mary Kay Folsom, founder of Kays On The Beach, passed away on October 10, 2024, just one month after her 100th birthday. Born in Owen, Wisconsin, Kay married her childhood sweetheart, Bill Hilt, after he served as a pilot during World War II. She studied music and education at the University of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Together they built a successful optometric private practice and raised two daughters.

During the polio epidemic, Kay initiated Wisconsin’s first homebound program for children confined to iron lungs. Seeking a warmer climate, the couple discovered Naples, where they founded Kays On The Beach and Marco Island, building a historic landmark that remains today. Following Bill’s early death, their daughter Jeane moved from Manhattan to join Kay in continuing their legacy, which now spans five locations from Marco to Naples and Bonita Springs. Jeane’s son, Banks, has also joined the family business, ensuring that the legacy endures.

Kay never met a stranger; she was the person on the plane to whom you would share your life story. Her success was rooted in her love and appreciation for everything good, as well as her passion for art, music and drama. She found beauty in everyone. With her operatic voice, Kay rendered the “Our Father” enough to bend the knee of the most hardened soul. There were no countries left for her to visit, as she traveled the world, observing everything and everyone she could.

She is survived by her daughter, Jeane Hilt; her grandson, Banks Seiple; her daughter, Kathy Ponko; her husband, Bill Ponko; her grandson, Billy Ponko and his wife Rachel; and her great-grandchildren, Rory Reese and granddaughter Sarah Ponko.

Her light is not gone but now lit within us.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 10:00 am at San Marco Catholic Church, 851 San Marco Rd, Marco Island, FL 34145.

Memorial contributions may be made towards the Kay Folsom memorial bench. Please make checks payable to: Kathy Ponko 16222 Chandler Blvd, Mishawaka, IN 46544.