Michael William Kilday

Michael William Kilday, age 84, passed away peacefully on the morning of November 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at The Knolls of Oxford. Born on December 3, 1940, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late John and Ruby Mae (Wilson) Kilday, Michael lived a life grounded in faith, family, and service to others. He graduated from Hamilton Catholic High School and went on to earn his degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy, Class of 1963. A devoted and caring pharmacist, Michael was one of four partners who owned and operated John Minnis Drugs Store and later continued his career at Kroger Pharmacy, where he worked until his retirement in 2009. He then became a member of the Ohio Pharmacist Association. Michael approached life with joy and generosity. He loved traveling, bowling, golfing, and running, and he found deep fulfillment in his involvement with the local AA community, where he offered encouragement and hope to many. In his earlier years he enjoyed being on the Oxford City Council and Barbershop Quartet. A faithful member of  St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oxford, he was active in Marriage Encounter, Cursillo and he was a Benedictine Oblate of St Meinrad. Above all, Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His family was the center of his world. He especially cherished time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who knew him as their loving “Papa.” His gentle spirit also extended to his beloved four-legged companions, who brought him much joy over the years. Michael is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Rosemary Kilday; his children Kelly (Richard) Keller and Dan (Dawn) Kilday; his grandchildren Maxwell and Madeline; and great-grandchildren Aubriella, Bryson, Emersyn, and Georgia. He is also survived by his sister Sally (Dick) Lewis, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved grandson Samuel; and his siblings Kathleen (David) Noland and Dennis Patrick Kilday. A visitation will take place at Paul R Young Funeral Home, Oxford, on Monday, November 17, 2025 from 4:00pm-6:00pm with a Mass of Christian Burial to take place on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 11:00am at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 111 E. High Street, Oxford, Ohio 45056.  Burial will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery following Mass. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Cincinnati Right to Life, McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital, The Knolls of Oxford, or Eternal Word Television Network/EWTN. Michael’s life and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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