Kay Baker Jensen

Kay Baker Jensen (née Kay Alicia Baker), beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, died with her family by her side on October 20th at the age of 90.

Born on March 3, 1935, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Harry and Mabel Baker, Kay lived a life filled with deep love for her family, tireless community service, and an enthusiastic desire for lifelong learning.

Kay met her late husband, Carl J. Jensen, Jr., at Gettysburg College, where she earned her degree in English. They shared a marriage full of adventure, raising their children and traveling extensively domestically and internationally—including several memorable cruises.

Kay is survived by her sister, Judith Van Duzer; her children, Jeff Jensen and his wife Patti, and Lynn Jensen Worden and her husband Kevin O’Hara; her cherished grandchildren, Ben and Krista Worden, and Kirk and Anya Jensen; and her great-granddaughter, Alivia Eder, who brought her great joy in her final years.

A passionate educator, Kay taught high school English in Hillside, NJ, from 1956 to 1960, and later worked as a substitute teacher in Shrewsbury, NJ. Later, she co-owned and managed a marina alongside her husband, embracing the challenges and rewards of small business ownership.

Beyond her professional life, Kay was deeply committed to civic engagement and volunteerism. She held leadership roles in the League of Women Voters in New Jersey and was an active member of the American Association of University Women. She also volunteered at a local soup kitchen, finding joy in helping others.

A pioneer in her time, Kay was elected to the Shrewsbury Borough Board of Education, where she served as a member and president from 1974 to 1976. She later served on the Red Bank Regional Board of Education, including as president, from 1977 to 1979—remarkable achievements during an era when few women held such leadership roles.

For over 60 years, Kay was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church at Shrewsbury, NJ, where she served as both Trustee and Elder. She enjoyed the community and music of the church, and regularly contributed her flower arranging skills for church events and fundraisers.

Kay loved being outdoors and active—whether gardening, arranging flowers, playing tennis, biking, or skiing. She was also an avid bridge player, reader, and crossword puzzle solver. But above all, she treasured time spent with her family. Her grandchildren and great-granddaughter held a special place in her heart, and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate their milestones or share in their joys.

In recent years, Kay moved to Delaware to be closer to her family. She remained vibrant and engaged until the end, leaving behind a legacy of love and strength.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.  Donations can be made in Kay’s memory to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (https://www.alexslemonade.org/memorial/kay-jensen).

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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