There is no end to my eternal wife’s loving influence on our family, friends, and this older man. At age 18 my neighbor, Kay Hinckley, had served a three-year mission in Canada. She was an officer at East High School, held a job at the University of Utah, and enjoyed a calling in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Outgoing Kay had unforgettable, positive influence on her amazing circles of friends, family, neighbors, and strangers. Being the youngest of eight children, she helped her parents stay young (sometimes adding to their gray hairs). A life filled with adventure!
Also a returned missionary, I was years older than Kay, but years behind her socially and in other ways. However, she must have seen potential in me for improvement when we started dating as classmates in Music Appreciation at the “U”. I was privileged to experience Kay’s love for life and her love for all that God offers to His children. Her students in English classes were blessed by that, many continuing to be so inspired. Sister Cannon also made long-lasting impressions where we served in the Michigan Detroit Mission. The lives of our five children clearly reflect their mother’s positive influence. And Kay’s beauty, famously with her engaging smile, also has me … “let me count the ways” .… forever falling in love.
When the personal history of Kay Hinckley Cannon is written, a main theme throughout will be her loving, enduring influence on us all. It will be a history influenced by Kay … with no end.
