Mother Eudia M. Gay

Eudia M. Gay was a woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and a heart that embraced everyone she met. Born on November 9, 1938, in Tarboro, North Carolina, she spent her life uplifting others, spreading kindness, and sharing the joy of family and faith. On February 5, 2025, in Suffolk, Virginia, she peacefully transitioned from this life, leaving behind a legacy of love that will never be forgotten.

For 66 years, Eudia was the devoted and cherished wife of Early Gay Jr., and together they built a home filled with love, faith, and strength. She was the proud mother of Early Gay III (Gina Gay) of Goldsboro, NC, Alonza Gay (Jaime Gay) of Suffolk, VA, Renita Figgs (Antwon Figgs) of Suffolk, VA, and Sophia Gethers (Reginald Gethers) of Fayetteville, GA. Her love extended across multiple generations, blessing her with grandchildren: Kiyauna, GiNia, Naudia, Destiny, Angelica, EJ, Khyli, Anaya, Alonna, Antwon Jr., Ayonna (Erick), Ashayla (Corey), Lyniah, and KJ, and great-grandchildren: Kameron, Leilani, Gianna, Lauryn, Malia, Dasan, and A'Rayah, and one on the way, possibly two. She was also a beloved Godmother to Helen, Takima, and Travaras Simmons.

Eudia’s life was a testament to her deep and abiding faith. She dedicated 55 years to Saint Paul Pentecostal Holiness Church, where she served with humility, love, and devotion. She accepted Christ at an early age and lived her life as a testament to His grace, teaching others by example and instilling a firm but gentle foundation of faith in those she touched.

She worked for nearly 20 years at Ford Motor Company, balancing her career while ensuring her home was always a place of warmth and comfort.

Eudia was a woman whose love knew no boundaries, whose faith was unwavering, and whose presence could fill any space with warmth and light. She was sincere in everything she did, moving through life with purpose, devotion, and an open heart. Whether as a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished aunt, adored sister, doting grandmother, or trusted friend, she gave of herself a thousand percent. She made sure you felt seen, loved, and valued, and she did so with no expectation of anything in return.

Her home was a sanctuary—an open door for all who needed a place to rest, a hot meal, or simply the joy of her company. People from all over the country found their way to her doorstep, drawn by her generosity and the comfort she provided. She welcomed everyone with Agape love—pure, selfless, and unconditional.

If you ever had the blessing of sitting at Eudia’s table, you know she had a gift for cooking, especially her BBQ and famous snow cones. She took pride in bringing people together through food, laughter, and stories, always making sure that no one left her presence without feeling nourished in body and soul. From mouthwatering traditional dishes to the occasional mysterious creation that always, somehow, turned out perfect, her food left you salivating for more. She fed thousands—whether in her home, at church, or wherever she found an opportunity to serve.

Through every season of life, Eudia carried herself with grace. Even as her health declined, she never complained—not once. Doctors marveled at her strength, astounded that she showed no signs of the pain they were certain she should feel. When the doctors would ask, "Mrs. Gay, are you in pain?" her answer was always, "No, I’m not in pain, thank God." Her unwavering faith and trust in God’s plan left even medical professionals in awe.

Her devotion as a wife was unparalleled. She lovingly spoiled her husband, Early, ensuring he was always comfortable and well cared for. With grace and patience, she tended to him in ways that few could ever match. Her strength, poise, and unwavering commitment to their vows were a testament to the deep respect and sacredness with which she honored their marriage.

And as a mother—oh, how she mothered! Not only her four children but every child who needed guidance, discipline, or simply a safe place to grow. Eudia’s Boot Camp was well-known; parents sent their misbehaving children to her knowing they would return transformed—just ask Du Da. She had a way of commanding respect with love, instilling values that left a lasting impact.

Her humor, her kindness, her honesty, her deep and abiding compassion—these qualities defined her. She loved to travel, challenge herself with crossword puzzles, and unwind by watching black and white western cowboy shows. And when it came to naps, she took them with pride. If she was sleepy, you knew it—she didn’t care if she was in the middle of a full-blown conversation. When it was nap time, she embraced it wholeheartedly, waking up with a smile as if she had just recharged for the next great moment. She was tough, resilient, and seemingly untouchable by pain. Even when she tripped and fell on numerous occasions, she would get up laughing, without a scratch, as if nothing ever could hurt her. God's protection surrounded her, shielding her from harm. She had a sharp, sassy wit that could catch you off guard, and she often tickled herself to laughter with her own clever remarks. She was fair and treated everyone with the same love and dignity she gave to her own family. Her grandchildren were her heart’s delight, and no matter how far they were, she found a way to support and uplift them.

She leaves behind her loving brother, LV Jenkins, who shared in her journey of faith and family, and whose bond with her will never be broken.

Eudia’s life was a testament to God’s favor. She carried His love with her in a way that was pure and holy, and she shared it freely with all who crossed her path. One of her favorite songs was "When I First Sought Sanctification, I was looking for real salvation. They taught me that I had to dress in modest apparel, I had to wear my dresses long. I had to cover up my arms, and if it took that in those days, it takes it right now." These words resonated deeply with her unwavering commitment to faith and holiness.

If she could leave us with one final message, it would be: "Get to know God for yourself. Love those around you genuinely, forgive freely, and never let the troubles of this world steal your joy. Keep your heart right before God, and trust that He will carry you through every season of life. Stay humble, stay kind, and above all, stay faithful."

Now that she has gone on to be with the Lord, let her light continue to shine in each of us. Let her love be the example we follow. Let her faith be the foundation on which we stand. And let us honor her memory by striving, as she did, to make Heaven our home.

Rest well, Mother Gay. Your love lives on.

 A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Union Baptist Missionary Church, 5414 Nansemond Parkway, Suffolk, VA. She will be laid to rest in St. Paul Pentecostal Holiness Church Cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home,Inc.