ZEBULON - 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 sister-in-law Brenda Privette; and was preceded 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 Pearce Baptist 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.

Paid Obituary