Edith "Juel" Gay

Edith “Juel” Privette Gay died May 31, 2011 at her home in Pearces, North Carolina surrounded by her family and friends. She was born on November 29, 1923 as the eldest daughter of the late Herbert and Thettie Belle Privette. She was married to Hilliard “Biddy” Jasper Gay for 59 years until he preceded her in death in 2001. They had three children, Hilliard Jasper Gay Jr.(Faye), William Myron Gay (Barbara), and Rhonda Gay Strickland. She loved her grandchildren, Gregg Gay (Elaine), Bill Gay (Misti), Brian Gay (Karen), Marty Gay (Brenda), Laura Smith (Travis), and Michael Strickland. She was also very proud to have 8 great-grandchildren, Samantha Putman, Morgan Gay, Ian Peedin, Summer Gay, Christopher Gay, Will Gay, Tyson Smith, and Juel Smith. She is also survived by her twin sisters, Millie Goodnight and Tillie Hilvar; and was preceeded in death by siblings Kirby Privette, Keston Privette, Reba Peterson, and Elmo Privette. She was lovingly cared for by Ann Hill and Mae Gresham. She loved spending time with her family, sharing vegetables from the garden, quilting, and listening to gospel music. “Miss Juel” was a life-long member of Pearce Baptist Church, where she taught the beginners Sunday School class for over 20 years. She loved her pastor, Mark Cottrell and treasured many wonderful friends in the church and community. Her funeral service was held at the church on Saturday, June 4 at 11:00, with arrangements by Massey Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be made to the Parsonage Fund at Pearce Baptist Church.

It is very hard to believe that Grandma Juel is no longer on this Earth. She died the day after Memorial Day at 7:27 p.m. Her family was with her, in and out, all day. Mom never left her side. We held her precious hands and told her that it was ok to go, that we would be fine. And we are, but we are not. It seems like Pearces is just not the same. The air is harder to breathe and the sun does not shine as brightly. We are so thankful that she was able to be in her home as she took her last breath and went to her heavenly home. One tear rolled down her cheek. Baby Juel was with me when it happened. I found it comforting and perfect.

We are thankful that she is no longer suffering as she did in the last few days of life, rather she is in "Beulah Land" in the presence of Jesus.  We are blessed by the outpouring of love from our church, family and friends. We are grateful for the wonderful memories we have of our precious jewel. We are missing her tremendously. We are healing.