Born in Sheffield, England, the only child of Harry and Kath, Kay grew up to graduate from Hull University in Philosophy and Law and go on to teach high school math and science, a career she continued at Elmwood School when the James family emigrated to Ottawa in 1976.
When the family returned to England for a period in 1985-6, she obtained a Masters degree in Cognitive Science and Neural Networks from the University of Warwick.On their return to Ottawa she founded Knowledge Transfer, an Artificial Intelligence software consultancy, decades before the current hype around the sector.
She went on to become CRA’s National Technology Sector Specialist for Software Business in the SRED program, subsequently joining Deloitte as a Senior Director for SRED.
In addition to this, Kay was an amateur pilot, accomplished pianist, talented cook, avid reader, LISP programmer and gifted solver of cryptic crossword puzzles. In retirement she became a pillar of the Rockcliffe Park community, serving as a director of the Rockcliffe Park Residents’ Association.
All this was achieved at the same time as being a loving wife of 60 years to Doug, mother to Eliza, Zak and Barnaby, and grandmother to Evan, Mira and Benji. She was also ‘mom’ to Django, her devoted Tibetan Terrier.
There will be a celebration of Kay’s life later this summer, details to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the May Court Hospice, Ottawa.
Digital Guestbook
Rob James
Sheron Cooke
Kay (anne) was my mums cousin and as a family we loved her dearly. Every time we got together over the last few yrs there were many laughs and hrs of family stories. We will miss her so much. Our love goes out to Doug, Eliza, Zac and Barnaby and of course Django.
Kay was a multi-talented lady, who will be sadly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. My thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Doug and the family.