Kay Tomlinson

Kay Smith Tomlinson, age 79, of McDonough, Georgia passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2024, in Fayetteville, Georgia after a hard-fought battle with dementia. Kay was born to Thomas Clarence Smith and Luella Harden Smith on July 6, 1945, in Brunswick, Georgia. Kay was a graduate of Beaufort High School in Beaufort, South Carolina. She married Rolland Arthur Tomlinson III of Atlanta, Georgia on December 29, 1968. They have two sons, Rolland Arthur Tomlinson IV and Matthew Allen Tomlinson. The family resided in Conley, Georgia and eventually settled in McDonough, Georgia.

Kay had a vibrant “one-of-a-kind” personality. Her funny and quick-witted nature made her loved by so many. She simply enjoyed encouraging others. Often, it was through laughter. Kay had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel. She also had a deep love of the arts. She loved to sing, paint, and dance. As a child, she performed at local military bases near her beloved hometown of Beaufort, South Carolina. Kay was also a woman of strong faith in God and was an active member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church in Stockbridge, Georgia for many years. She taught Sunday School along with her husband and worked at the church and school in various capacities.

Kay is preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sister, Elaine Smith McConnell. She is survived by her sister, Betty Smith Horne, and her two sons and three grandchildren: Kara, Luke, and Ryan Tomlinson. She will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew her. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 10 am at Glen Haven Baptist Church in McDonough, Georgia.