Romona Ione Hay

October 29, 1926 - January 23, 2021

Romona Ione Jones Hay, age 94, of Michigan City died at home on Saturday January 23, 2021. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Geisen-Carlisle Funeral Home, Michigan City, where visitation will take place on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 from 9:00 to 11:00 AM (limited to 25 people). Private family services will be held. Those in attendance will be required to wear face masks and practice social distancing in accordance with Covid-19 mandates.

Mrs. Hay was preceded in death by her husband, Gene R. Hay, M.D., whom she married in Michigan City August 6, 1950, and who died March 5, 2013. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Judge Susan Hay Hamminger, the first female judge elected in LaPorte County, who died September 3, 1993 and her brother: Norman L. Jones.

Mrs. Hay is survived by her son David L. Hay, Ph.D., by four grandchildren: Elizabeth A. Hay, M.D., Edward A. Hay, Eliot A. Hay and Colin J. Hay, two great-grandchildren: Lillian G. Hay, and James D. Hay. She is also survived by her brother: Paul L. (Paula S.) Jones of Laporte.

Mrs. Hay was born October 29, 1926 in Michigan City, to Lester L. and Ione L. (Eckert) Jones. She was a 1944 graduate of Elston High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1949 from Purdue University. She took later graduate work at Indiana University during her teaching career.

From 1953 to 1955, the Hays lived in Japan while Dr. Hay was a Navy medical officer. They moved back to Michigan City for three years, followed by Dr. Hay’s three years as a medical resident in Indianapolis. In 1961, they returned to Michigan City, where Dr. Hay practiced internal medicine until retiring in 1993.

Mrs. Hay was highly involved in her community, taking active roles in many groups: Service League of Michigan City, Tri-Kappa service sorority, PEO International, the local chapters of the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society, The LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra, Unity Foundation of LaPorte County, Barker Civic Center Guild, the local Women’s Study Club, and Michigan City Scholarship Foundation. She was also served on the Chancellor’s Advisory Board of Purdue University North Central.

Mrs. Hay was the first female member of the governing Session of First Presbyterian Church of Michigan City, and was later active in the Esther & Lydia Circles of First United Methodist Church of Michigan City.

Mrs. Hay’s family suggests that in lieu of flowers, any memorial contribution be made to the Susan Hay Hemminger Scholarship foundation, P.O. Box 9242, Michigan City, IN 46361, the Presbyterian Church of LaPorte, 307 Kingsbury Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350, or to the charitable organization of the donor’s choice.

To sign the guestbook or leave condolences, please visit: www.geisenfuneralhome.com or call (219)874-4214.

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I am so sorry for the loss of Romona. She was a pleasure to know as she always had a smile and a pleasant word for everyone. Remember the happy times and keep her memory close to your heart.

My deepest sympathy . Ramona will be missed.

David, we’re so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. We’re keeping you & your family in our thoughts.

My parents, Jim & Lucille Williams, were friends with both Gene and Ramona. Our family's deepest condolences to you all.

Romona was a dedicated member of the Delta Mu Chapter of Tri Kappa as well as, in later years, a very active member of the Michigan City Associate Chapter of Tri Kappa. She attended our last Christmas Luncheon and entertained us all with her awesome wit and conversation. We will remember her fondly and miss her presence greatly. We would like to offer the following prayer, taken from the Tri Kappa Memorial Service: “Dear God, the Father of us all, it is with love and praise in our hearts that we humbly give thanks to Thee for our association in life with Romona, our sister. Give us strength to meet life courageously and to accept our tasks cheerfully, as she did. May we have kindness in our hearts and let it be manifest, so that it will give strength and solace to the sorrowing hearts of her loved ones. This task of kindness we accept as Tri Kappas. O God, guide, direct, and counsel us as we depart from our sister, Romona. Amen.”

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I met Romona about 20 years ago when I began taking care of her gardens at her residence as well as at the “Scotland” garden she and her late husband Gene sponsored at Botanic Friendship Gardens. I learned quickly that pink was her favorite color. She always kept me on my toes and often surprised me when she would have a new plant she wanted placed somewhere. Her gardens were mostly shaded so trying to find the right spot for these plants that needed full sun was always a challenge. Through the years our friendship grew and I was so blessed to have her in my life. I will miss her but will know she’ll be watching me as I lovingly take care of “Scotland” for her. God bless you, Romona. Rest In Peace.

I will miss you Aunt Romona, the original Jones girl. My fun memories of summer day trips and visits in the sunroom won't be forgotten. David, we honor you and family. See you soon. Gayle

Dr. and Mrs. Hay were both wonderful giving people. She will be missed, so sorry for this family's loss.

so sorry for your loss

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.