Kay Ann Tekle, was born Kay Ann Kirby on December 2, 1948, in Indianapolis Indiana. She graduated from Indianapolis University and obtained a post BA certificate in Cytology from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts in the early 70s. She was a Cytologist for nearly 40 years and retired from her profession in 2012. She was passionate about women's health and devoted herself to her chosen profession. She was married to Mesfin Tekle for 39 years until his passing in 2015. Kay and Mesfin had two daughters, Saba Karen Tekle and Alemnesh Mesfin Tekle. Kay was a devoted and loving wife and mother.

Kay loved to travel and lived in different countries. She loved to learn about other cultures, loved music, and was always willing to try new things. 

Kay passed away on March 14th, 2026 in Minot, ND. Kay will be dearly missed, and is survived by both her daughters, brother-in-law Solomon Tekle and his family, and her twin sister Karen Eddy, brother-in-law Ralph Eddy, and nephew Nathan Eddy and his family.

A private graveside service was held at Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot