Paulina "Kay" Slinkard, age 80, of Glen Carbon, IL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Meridian Village Care Center.

Born on December 13, 1944 in Lawrence County, IL, Kay earned her Bachelor of Education from Eastern Illinois University. Though she pursued studies in education and began her career as a high school history teacher, she found a meaningful career as a secretary at North Junior High School. While there she met several people who became good friends, and she made a lasting impact on many students before her retirement.

Kay found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed working in her yard, getting lost in a good book, and, most of all, spending cherished time with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur F. "Frank" Slinkard, whom she married on June 8, 1968; by her parents, Charles and Pauline (née Ridgley) Jackman, and two sisters-in-law.

She is survived by her loving children: a son, Ben Slinkard of Orting, WA; and a daughter, Jennifer (Ean Bevel) Slaughter of Glen Carbon, IL. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Luke and Sam Slaughter.

Also surviving are her siblings: Joe Jackman of Mt. Carmel, IL; Roger (Nellie) Jackman of Allendale, IL; Bill Jackman of St. Francisville, IL; and her sister, Linda (C.E.) Kimble of Allendale, IL; along with numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved.

A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 p.m.

Burial will take place at a later date in Orio, IL, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband, Frank.

Memorials are suggested to Vitas Hospice or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and will be received at the visitation or can be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.