Kathleen "Kay" Ann Davies

It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Kathleen "Kay" Ann Davies, age 84, of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, on October 31, 2026. Kay lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service.

Born on July 30, 1942 in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Kay was the daughter of Frederick (Fred) and Gertrude (Gert) Schmidt. The oldest of six children, she grew up surrounded by her five younger brothers. Following high school Kay pursued her passion for nursing, earning her RN degree from Mount Sinai School of Nursing. She later continued her education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Kay's love story with William (Bill) Davies, also of Waukesha, began at the Merrill Country Club. While Kay was participating in a father-daughter golf tournament, Bill was working on the grounds. He took notice of Kay and was determined to take her on a date. As it turned out, their story may have begun long before they ever officially met. Born just nine days apart in the same Waukesha hospital, they shared the same nursery as newborns. What began as a chance encounter blossomed into a beautiful 61-year marriage filled with love, partnership, and family.

Following Bill’s service in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, Kay and Bill settled in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, where they began building their life together. Kay continued her nursing career, initially providing direct patient care before transitioning into an administrative role at Abbott Northwestern Hospital. There she drew upon her nursing knowledge and experience to help the Finance and Information Systems departments understand, interpret, and apply medical data. Kay later earned her Master's degree in Education from the University of St. Thomas. She combined her nursing experience and passion for education to teach, mentor, and inspire others entering the nursing profession, all while continuing her administrative work at Abbott Northwestern Hospital. Through her dedication and guidance she made a lasting difference in the lives of the many nurses and students she helped along the way.

Kay believed deeply in giving back and was actively involved in her community. She generously devoted her time, talents, and leadership to numerous organizations including the National Catholic Committee on Scouting, Northern Star Scouting, Lennox Foundation, Patient Partners, and various parish committees. Service was never simply something Kay did; it was a reflection of who she was and how she chose to live her life.

For Kay, love was expressed through acts of service. She was happiest when doing something for someone else. Her kitchen was always a place of comfort and warmth, and no one ever left empty-handed. She was known for her lasagna, macaroni and cheese and most importantly, loaves upon loaves of her beloved banana bread. It was her way of saying "I love you."

Perhaps Kay's most cherished role of all was being a mom and grandma. She adored her three children, Laura, Matt, and Mike and was the kind of mother who would do absolutely anything for her family. When her grandchildren came along, she devoted her time, energy and love to being the best grandmother to Lindsey, Will, Sam, Andie and Teddy.

Grandma was their biggest cheerleader, never missing an opportunity to attend a recital, band concert, sporting event, or anything else her grandchildren were involved in. Distance was never going to keep her away. Whether they were in Texas or the Netherlands, Kay made countless trips and endless FaceTime calls to stay connected and be part of their everyday lives. Her love extended to Matt and Michelle's dog family, too. With Matt and Michelle both working as airline pilots, Kay made sure their dogs were always loved and cared for in her home. No matter who you were or what kind of care you needed, Kay was always there. Being a mom and grandma wasn't just something she did; it was one of the greatest joys of her life.

Above all, Kay was a woman of deep and unwavering faith. Her devotion to the Catholic Church was an important part of her life, and she gave her time generously to her parish community. She faithfully served on many parish committees and as a Eucharistic Minister, bringing comfort and the sacraments to others, both at Mass and to those who were sick in their homes. Those who knew and loved her find comfort in knowing that she is now in heaven with Jesus, reunited with those who have gone before her.

The phrase "gone too soon" is often used when someone passes, but for Kay, it could not be more true. There never would have been enough time for her family, friends, or community to prepare for the loss of such a selfless and generous woman. Her family mourns the loss of a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, Aunt and friend. All who knew her will feel the absence of her extraordinary kindness and generosity. The many lives she touched are a testament to the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

Kay was preceded in death by her father, Frederick (Fred) Schmidt, and her mother, Gertrude (Gert) Schmidt.

She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, William Davies; her children, Laura (Robert) Anderson, Matthew (Michelle Banta) Davies, and Michael (Rebecca) Davies; and her cherished grandchildren, Lindsey Anderson, William Anderson, Samantha Davies, Andrea Davies, and Theodore Davies. She is also survived by her five brothers: Dr. Thomas (Linda) Schmidt, Frederick (Teresa) Schmidt, John (Carol) Schmidt, William (Bette) Schmidt, and Dr. Joseph (Julie) Schmidt, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation will be Monday, November 16, from 4-7 p.m. at Gearty-Delmore Park Chapel, in St. Louis Park. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 17, at the Church of Our Lady of Grace in Edina, with visitation one hour prior to Mass.