Ellen “Kay” Ardry, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home on January 28, 2026, at the age of 86. She was born on July 31, 1939, in Borger, Texas, to John Edward Gilman and Lorine Weir Gilman.
Kay was pen pals with Ray Ardry, who was serving in the United States Army. They married on November 29, 1957, and shared 60 years of love. Kay and Ray settled in Dumas, Texas, where they raised their family.
She was a devoted follower of Christ. She was a member of Franklin Street Church of Christ and known for her unwavering faith and kindness. In her personal life, Kay found joy in cooking, crafting, taking walks, caring for her family, and sharing a good laugh. She always sacrificed her needs for those of her family.
Kay was preceded in death by her parents, John Gilman and Lorine Gilman; her husband, Ray Ardry; her brother, Edward Gilman; her three sisters, Betty Larson, Patsy Hoyle, and Helen May Barnes; and her granddaughters, Brandie Tow and Rena Ronco.
She is survived by her son, Daniel Ray Ardry Sr.; two daughters, Kathy Ronco and husband Chuck, and Rose Boyd. Additionally, she is survived by 8 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 22 great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Ellen Kay Ardry will be remembered for her strength, faith, and love for her family and community. She had a quiet strength. She never complained and was the heart of the family. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will forever be cherished.
Family and friends are invited to her graveside service on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Memorial Park Cemetery, 6969 E Interstate 40 Hwy, Amarillo, Texas 79118, with Mr. Spencer Blackweller of the Franklin Street Church of Christ officiating. Services are under the direction of Lighthouse Funeral and Cremation Services.
Many hugs and laughter. I will always remember your stories you told me about you and grandpa ray. Nothing out did your heart and soul. The memories we have will never be forgotten. I still miss the smell of your breakfast and you waking me up”Kathy it’s time to eat.” You were so patient ,loving and joyful. I’m so glad you got to meet my babies and I got to tell them stories of you. Hiawatha Forever and always🥰
Rest in peace Mrs. Ardry.
Kay was my second Mom and I will never forget all the memories we made while I lived there with you in Sanford. One of my funniest memories was when there was a tarantula in the kitchen sink and it was late at night I went and woke Rosie up because Daniel was on the road on the truck and you and Ray were asleep anyways Rosie and I were both too scared to do anything about the tarantula so Rosie woke k-up and here we are all three of us trying to do something about the tarantula when Kay gets a bowl and throws it over the tarantula or tries to and makes it but then I’m still afraid that it’s going to get out from under there so she has to get close enough to put a pot on top of that bowl to the tarantula it’s not able to come out from underneath it and it was just hilarious I also have many fond memories of you coming home from the grocery store with a huge bag of rice saying this is for my little Oriental girl. You took me in as your own and I love you Kay and you will be missed so much by me and by so many others but I know without a doubt where you’re going, you’re going home and that makes me very happy .
My absolute favorite memory was waking up Saturday mornings knowing it was French toast time. Grandma Kay would cook so many French toast and all the kids would see who could eat the most.
Grandma Kay was so amazing, caring and always had an open home for anyone in need. I thank her for showing what true love and marriage looks like. Grandma Kay has changed so many lives.
I love you grandma Kay
Hey Mom, I miss you terribly. I could talk to you about anything and you could help.
I have so many memories good and bad but mainly they make me smile.
I was so lucky to have a mom and dad like us. You guys were the best.
Kathy