Robert Ewing Kay, Sr.

Robert Ewing Kay, Sr., age 84, of Middletown, DE, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026, surrounded by the love and gratitude of those whose lives he touched.

Born in Worton, MD, on May 28, 1941, he was a son of the late Phelena Fenby and James Melvin Kay. Robert lived a life marked by courage, skill, and adventure. He served his country with honor as a lieutenant, flying the F-8 Crusader from the USS Ticonderoga in the Vietnam war, earning twelve honors during his military service. His dedication, bravery, and excellence reflected the highest traditions of naval aviation. Following his military career, Robert continued to soar as a respected Pan Am captain, piloting the prestigious Boeing 747. His career in aviation was a testament to his discipline, confidence, and mastery of his craft.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert was a man of deep passions and rich talents. He loved bluegrass music and was a gifted banjo and dobro player, leaving behind several recordings that reflected both his musicianship and his joy for the music he loved. He also had a love of sailing and was the proud captain and owner of the Martha White, a Bluenose schooner that reflected his adventurous spirit and reverence for the water.

Robert also gave generously of himself through his charitable involvement with Veterans for the Chesapeake Bay, combining his love for fellow veterans with his devotion to the natural beauty and preservation of the Chesapeake.

Robert will be remembered as a father, grandfather, a decorated veteran, an accomplished aviator, a talented musician, a sailor, and a man whose life was lived with purpose, dignity, and grace. His legacy endures in the family and friends who love him, the service he gave, the music he made, and the many lives enriched by his presence.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his brothers, Edward, James, and Charles. He is survived by his beloved children, Julia, Robert (Sandra), and Emily; and his cherished grandchildren, Austin, Robert, and Michael.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at St. Joseph Parish, 319 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 am. A committal service will follow in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to Charter for Veterans (CFV) – Veteran support through Chesapeake Bay experiences by mail to: Charter for Veterans Inc., 4222 Fortuna Center Plaza, #278, Dumfries, VA 22025-1515 or online by clicking here.