Mr. Jerry Duane Gay

Mr. Jerry Duane Gay, age 88, of Thomaston, died Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at his residence. The family will hold a memorial service to honor and celebrate Jerry’s life on Saturday, December 18, at 1:00 PM, at Pike Assembly of God in Zebulon with Rev. Tommy Smith officiating. Jerry was born in Union, Mississippi, on August 3, 1933, a son of the late Kelley Laverne Gay and the late Georgia Lee Gay. He was born with a curiosity for life which led him to live a life full of adventure. After high school he joined the U.S. Army where he served for two years and was decorated with National Defense Service Medal. He then began his life long love of education at Mississippi State University. Later he received his master’s degree from the University of Georgia. Jerry believed deeply in the importance of a good education and spent a great many of his years teaching and pouring into the lives of his students. Jerry was also an avid outdoorsman, traveling all over the world hunting and fishing. He was also a master gunsmith, creating beautiful works of art. He was a man of a deep and quiet faith. He attended Pike Assembly of God and found great joy in being part of that dear faith community. His greatest joy was sharing his life with his wife, Patricia and his family. Jerry in addition to his parents, is preceded in death by his brother Bill Gay. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Gay of Thomaston; a daughter, Sue (Mike) Johnson of Griffin; a son, Andy (Darlene) Gay of Meridian, MS: a bonus daughter, Kimberli (Alan) Yarbrough of Thomaston; a bonus son, Ken Hopkins of Savannah; sister, Rita Gay of Pennsylvania; brother, Michael (Joann) Gay of Arizona; sister, Yumi Gay of Florida; brothers, Riki (Gerri) Gay and Sam (Danielle) Gay both of California. Nine grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews also survive. Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.