Katherine “Kay” Mary Ann Carman Robinson

Katherine “Kay” Mary Ann Carman Robinson, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully of natural causes on August 31, 2025, in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the age of 81. Born on June 30, 1944, in Albany, California, to Richard and Katherine Carman, Kay was the cherished fourth child and long-awaited first daughter of her parents.

Kay married her junior high school sweetheart, Pete (Garth Jones) Robinson, on March 6, 1962. Their love was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple, alongside their four young daughters. Together, they welcomed a foster son, David Allison, into their family.

Kay graduated from West High School, home of the “Mighty Panthers,” alongside her best friend, Dixie VanWagoner. Together with their husbands, they never missed a class reunion, cherishing the lifelong connections she made there. Kay and Dixie were inseparable and she deeply mourned her passing.

She was a devoted partner to Pete, supporting him through his Navy service and 30-year career as a firefighter. Kay embraced the challenges of being a “firefighter’s widow” during Pete’s shifts at the fire station, raising her daughters with grace, grit, and a remarkable sense of humor. Her children knew that if something was going to go wrong, it would happen when Dad was on duty—and Mom would rise to the occasion, every time. She taught her daughters the value of laughing instead of crying, no matter what life threw at them.

Her life was a testament to love, service, and resilience. A stay-at-home mom for most of her life, Kay later worked enjoyed working at the Utah State Tax Commission, where she made many lifelong friends. She instilled in her children the values of kindness, generosity, service, and perseverance. She delighted in family gatherings, “Sub for Santa” opportunities, and making Christmas magical. We grew up with more “traditions” then we knew what to do with. Mom loved showing up and supporting and cheering on her kids and grandkids in all of their various activities.

A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kay served in many callings and was a gifted leader and teacher to both youth and peers. Her empathy and compassion touched countless lives. She was an accomplished pianist, a talented seamstress, and had a green thumb that brought life to every garden she tended.

Kay loved camping with her family, was an avid reader, and a dedicated swimmer. In her later years, she discovered a passion for golf and loved the hours spent on the course with Pete, Mel and Dixie.

Affectionately known as “Silver-tongue” for her quick wit, her humor sometimes landed her in hot water, but she truly believed laughter made everything better. Her philosophy of choosing laughter over tears carried her through life’s trials, even to her final days. Her infectious humor and unwavering optimism were a gift to all who knew her.

Kay was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years; her son, David; her parents; her brothers, Richard and Ronald; and her dear, lifelong, inseparable friend, Dixie VanWagoner.

She is survived by her four daughters:

1. Deborah (Myles) Howard
2. Shelley (Spencer) Koehler
3. Lynette (Layne) Hilton
4. Christine (John) Jongejan

She also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, her brother David (Betty), and her baby sister Joan.

Kay will be deeply missed, but her family finds peace knowing she is reunited with her husband and best friend, Pete—whom she longed to see again. Her legacy of love, kindness, laughter, and, above all, family, will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and owners at Twin Oaks Assisted Living for the love and dignity they gave to both Mom and Dad. They also thank the team at Legacy Village Rehabilitation for standing by her side and supporting her through her final days.

Funeral service will be held Saturday September 6, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Cannon 9th Ward, 1250 W 1400 S, Salt Lake City, Utah with a short viewing one hour prior to the service. A viewing will also be held Friday September 5, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Those wishing to view the service via Zoom can click "Watch Service" or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84043989226