Kay Donaldson

Kay Donaldson was born in 1949 in Bruce, MS the daughter of the late Dale Dawson (D. D.) and Glenda F. Bratton Ferguson.

She was united in marriage to George Donaldson in 1969.

Kay received her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Union University and a Master's in Education from Memphis State University. Two years before finishing her undergraduate degree she was offered and accepted a teaching position at Selmer Elementary. Kay taught first grade and kindergarten at Selmer Elementary for approximately 40 years. She then spent 7 years as the PreK-4 coordinator for the McNairy County School System. She was recognized as McNairy County Teacher of the Year in 2002. Kay was a faithful and involved member of Selmer First Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School, worked with the Children's Choir and Judgement House, and sang in the adult choir for 50 plus years. She and her husband George were charter members of the first couples' class to be organized at Selmer First Baptist Church in the late 1970's, known as the Joy Class. Having descended from a family of accomplished singers and musicians, Kay sang in "The Voices of Hope," a group of nine women who performed spiritual music in many locations throughout the area. She was also active in the "Arise to Read" program and was a former member of the Selmer Junior Civic League. One of her pet projects was the Backpack Ministry, providing backpacks and school supplies to children in McNairy County. Kay enjoyed plants and gardening, baking, cross-stitching, studying her Bible, making Memory Books, and traveling, but her greatest joy was found in spending time with her family and friends. She loved all the Mississippi State sports teams, and eventually added UT and UK to appease her family. She loved everyone regardless of their situation and always demonstrated patience and kindness when dealing with her students. Kay was an example of grace, beauty, and strength to all who were blessed to know her.

Kay departed this life on December 31, 2020 in Selmer, Tennessee at the age of 71 Years. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, George Donaldson of Selmer, TN; a daughter, Lori Kay (Donaldson) Knerr and husband Barry of Pegram, TN; two grandchildren, Sam Summers and Bailey Knerr; a sister, Molly Cheshier and husband Jack of Selmer, TN; a sister-in-law, Lucretia Ferguson of Selmer, TN; a brother-in-law, Keith Misenhimer of Selmer, TN; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and many additional family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Kay was preceded in death by a sister, Paula Misenhimer, and a brother, Glenn Dawson Ferguson.

Memorials may be made to the Backpack Ministry in care of First Baptist Church of Selmer or you may bring a backpack and school supplies to the visitation or service.

Visitors are requested to wear masks and observe social distancing guidelines when attending the visitation or service.