Craig Jonathan Kay

Craig Jonathan Kay of Rockville, MD — one-of-a-kind father, son, husband, brother, and friend — died unexpectedly on January 18, 2023, at the age of 55. Craig was born on November 24, 1967 to Marvin and Dolores Kay in Washington, DC. A graduate of Walt Whitman High School, Craig received his undergraduate degree from Arizona State University. Upon graduation, he returned to the DC area to cheer on his beloved ‘Skins. With a brief stint at Richmarr Companies, Craig then worked in sales for Encore Development. He later ventured out on his own to form K2 Development, while keeping active as a realtor.

Craig’s would-do-anything-for-anybody attitude, unfailing kindness, and compassion made him a cherished part of his friends’ and loved ones’ lives. His quick wit, biting sarcasm, and infectious laugh made him a constant source of entertainment.

A born storyteller, he had a spectacular memory. His gift for recalling the smallest of details from all points of his life was incredible — especially when it came to music, film, and football trivia.

Craig felt and cared deeply for those around him, including Stephanie, his wife of 25 years, his dear friends, and the dogs he had throughout his life: Norm, Kramer, Lola, and Stella.

His joys were simple. Steaks cooked Pittsburgh-style. Sundays spent watching football with friends. Skiing down the Colorado slopes. Singing along at the top of his lungs, albeit horribly, at a Springsteen or Rolling Stones show. Enjoying a lamb chop or two. Imparting musical history and wisdom on to his two daughters, who carry on his love for old and new music.

Having spent many summers of his life at Camp Skylemar in Maine, Craig passed his love for the magic of camp to his daughters. They were lucky enough to share the same experience as campers and counselors at Camp Mataponi, a place he loved to visit with Stephanie — each trip bookended by a stop at the Naples Lobster Pound. Nothing brought him more joy. 

Craig is survived by wife, Stephanie Krupin Kay, his adored children, Hallie and Madison, and his french bulldog, Stella, as well as immediate family members. Memorial contributions in Craig’s honor can be made to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Alliance) at https://donate.nami.org/fundraiser/4376916

His daughters wrote this obituary, and hope he is somewhere seeing some live music, or sharing a meal with one of his rock idols. We will forever miss him.