Kathleen R. Tompkins

Kathleen "Kay" Ryan Tompkins, of East Greenwich, RI, died Friday, September 13, 2024 after a long illness, surrounded by her loving family. She was 95 years old.

Kay was born on December 15, 1928 in White Plains, NY to Patrick and Sarah Ryan, the youngest of four siblings -- James, Thomas, and Mary. After graduating from high school, Kay was hired as a legal secretary in the law department of the city of White Plains, a position she proudly held until 1952, when she married Edward Tompkins of Yonkers, NY. They began their married life in an apartment in Bridgeport, CT, eventually buying their first home in Milford, Connecticut in 1958. Together they had three children: Kevin, Nancy and Kathleen.

In 1965, the family moved to a larger home in Newtown, CT (which she referred to as her "forever home"), but four years later, Edward's new job meant a move to Acton, MA. After his passing in 1990, Kay remained in the home until 2002, when she relocated to a charming condo in East Greenwich to be closer to daughter Kathy. She immediately fell in love with the town, the state of Rhode Island, and the people. Kay also cherished the many close friendships she made throughout her long life.

Kay is survived by her son Kevin (Sarah) of Valencia, CA, Nancy Roy (Michael) of Upton, MA and Kathy Armstrong (Edmund) of North Kingstown, RI, as well as six grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 19, from 4-7pm at Hill Funeral Home, 822 Main Street, East Greenwich, RI 02818. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved Edward in Acton, MA at a private family burial. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. www.stjude.org