Don Douglas Gay, 78, was called home to his Savior in the early morning hours of October 4th, 2022. At the time of his passing, Don was in the excellent hands of the care team at NorthCare Hospice House. He was born the first of five children on January 17, 1944 in Oklahoma City to Virgil and Ruth (Nelson) Gay.
Don was a carpenter, environmental scientist, singer, veteran, writer, teacher, bible study leader, and above all a devoted Christian. He was passionate about sharing faith through his carpentry. This gave him opportunities to work with Habitat for Humanity, Reach Workcamp, and church mission trips. Because of these experiences, he helped to rebuild homes in Liberty, Kansas City, Tennessee, and Papua New Guinea. Don was also a devoted husband and loving father who put the needs of the family before his own.
He is preceded in death by father Virgil, mother Ruth, brother Brian, sister Julie, and nephew Clint. He is survived by wife Mary Jo, brother Andy (Maureen), sister Jean (Don), son Matthew (Kelly Anne), daughter Meghan, son Nathan (Arah), grandchildren Madison, Erika, and Emily, other extended family and friends, his cat O’Malley, and his dogs Abby and Zack.
The Funeral Service will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 7, 2022 at Community Covenant Church in Kearney, MO with a Visitation one hour prior to the service. A Committal Service will take place at 2:30 p.m., Monday, October 17, 2022 at Leavenworth National Cemetery 150 Muncie Road Leavenworth, Kansas. Memories of Don and condolences to the family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com.
MaryJo and family, we are so sorry for your loss. Don was a good man dedicated to serving the Lord. Sending prayers for peace and comfort for you.
My prayers are with all of Don’s family and friends. May they grieve and the rejoice that he is in heaven with our Lord.
Mary Jo and Family, So very sorry for your sudden loss of Don. Such a gentleman, and servant of God. I will so miss seeing him on Sunday mornings and hearing him sing an occasional duet or solo.
When a person becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. Sending our love and healing wishes.
Mary Jo and Family,
I so welcomed seeing Don’s smiling face and his truly loving spirit. Although I know he will be missed, the memory of this great man of God will always be in my heart.
Mary Jo and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. It makes me sad for you and your children and grandchildren, but at peace knowing that Don is now with our Lord. May he rest in peace. May your hearts begin to heal. Love you, Tedde
Meghan and Family
We are so sorry for your loss. May the memories you share, and the stories you tell provide you comfort.
Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Your colleagues at Grinnell College
HSSC*South
Mary Jo
I called Don a few weeks ago and am I ever thankful I did. We had a good conversation but I could hear his voice was week. Until I asked how Mary Jo was doing. His voice suddenly became stronger and more animated and he said, “Darlin’, you know Mary Jo is the light of my life.”
Mary Jo,
We are so sorry for your loss. You are such a special lady and a wonderful neighbor. We will miss Don. I remember how happy he was when he said you had agreed to adopt Zach, who had been following him on his walks. It was obvious he loved you so much and you loved him. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Cathy and Kurt
Mary Jo,
I am so sorry for your loss. I am on the committee for our next MHS reunion next May and found your husband’s obituary while double checking addresses of classmates. Prayers for you and your family.
Mary Jo,
Don was a faithful member of our monthly men’s Bible study (Norquest) at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. His smile and warmth were contagious. Don’s interest in a deeper understanding of the Bible was an example to all. He will be greatly missed.