Kay J. Ralston

Kay Ralston, 88, of Grosse Ile, died September 28, 2024, at Corewell Health Trenton Hospital with her children and grandchildren by her side.

Kay was born and raised in River Rouge, MI, to the late Francis and Willamina Held. Growing up alongside two sisters (Gertrude and Loretta) and her brother (Frank), Kay spent her childhood surrounded by the people she loved—a theme that would follow throughout her life. In 1954, she graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, after which she worked at Great Lakes Steel until her marriage to the late William B. Ralston and the subsequent birth of her two children, Scott and Diane.

Throughout her life, Kay maintained an avid community of friends and family. She spent much of her time traveling, playing cards, and enjoying the company of loved ones. Those who were fortunate enough to love and be loved by Kay could be certain that they would always have a shoulder to lean on and a listening ear ready to hear them without passing judgment. However, despite her shining personality, Kay preferred to stay out of the spotlight and instead devoted herself to uplifting everyone in her life. Kay’s commitment to self-respect and propriety inspired those around her to treat themselves with the respect that she felt every individual deserved.

Kay was a lifelong companion and caretaker to many, all of whom fondly remember her dedication to the comfort and wellbeing of others. Whether it was ensuring that there was a home cooked meal on the table in time for a loved one’s arrival, picking up a friend’s favorite snack from the grocery store, or sending her grandchildren to the local bakery with money for a treat, Kay always went the extra mile to make the people in her life feel special.

Of Kay’s many endearing quirks, family fondly remembers her tendency to make up rhymes in order to remember important dates in her life, such as the one she created in order to remember her wedding anniversary: “In 1962, I walked down the aisle with you.” Kay’s good humor and inventive approach to life’s challenges ensured that anyone who spent time with her was sure to leave flushed with the joy of shared laughter.

Kay is survived by her children, Scott Ralston and Diane (Gregg) Trombley. In addition to being a cherished mother, Kay was a beloved grandmother to Jacob Trombley, Andrea Ralston, Christina Ralston, Nicklas Trombley, and Emma Trombley, as well as a beloved sister to Loretta Bulloch. She is preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, William B. Ralston, sister Gertrude Wise, and brother Frank Held.

Visitation for Kay will take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Trenton Chapel of The Martenson Family of Funeral Homes located at 3200 West Rd, 48183. The service will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.