Judy D. Gay

Judy D. Gay, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and lover of God, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2024, at the age of 75, at the Hospice House and Support Care of Williamsburg. She was born on January 25, 1949, in Aurora, North Carolina, Judy was the daughter of Helen Smith and the late Archie Moore.

On January 24, 1976, Judy married her best friend Jasper I. Gay. Their 48-plus years of marriage was a testament to enduring love and companionship. Together, they raised 2 children: Nicole and Jeff, and enjoyed their two grandchildren, Mercy and Samadhi. Judy’s family was the center of her world; however, her heart was big enough to make room for the many souls she would meet at church, neighborhood, and surrounding community.   

Judy spent over 42 years as a Claims Adjudicator for the Veterans Administration Regional Offices in New Jersey and New York.

Judy had a deep passion for children and instilled in them the love of Jesus. She uniquely connected with children and adolescents, making each child feel seen, valued, and encouraged. Whether at various daycare centers, children’s church ministries, or her very own home, her space was a place of joy, creativity, and discovery for all young people and her influence extended far and wide.  She was a woman of God who loved prayer. Always interceding for the hurting and wounded.

Her legacy is carried on by her loving husband Jasper Gay; children, Nicole “Renee” Gay and Jefferey “Seymour” Gay; daughter-in-law, Candyss Gay; beloved grandchildren, Mercy Williams and Samadhi “Sincere” Gay; mother, Helen Smith; aunts, Carolyn Conyers and Barbara Royal; uncle Claude Mattocks; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A memorial service to honor Judy’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Life Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Judy’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and/or the Hospice House and Support Care of Williamsburg.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Judy D. Gay, please visit our floral store.