Roger Gay

Roger Gay, age 90, passed away Saturday, January 27, 2018. Roger was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Tanya C. Gay; his father, Elwood Albert Gay and a brother, Robert Gay. Roger will be greatly missed by his family; his wife, Jean Merrilynn Gay, 2 sons, Thomas A. (Vicki) Gay and Phillip L. (Pati) Gay and 1 daughter, Leta A. (Floyd) Morris. He is also survived by his brother Larry (Maryann) Tate and step-daughter, Sara (Steve) Sanger. Roger’s grandchildren are Dawn K. (John) Dye, Richard G. (Jennie) Thorpe III, and Travis (Marijke) Osborn. Roger also had numerous great grandchildren. Roger was born in Benton Harbor, attended Dowagiac High School and a graduate of Argubright College in accounting. Roger was a 3rd Class Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was employed 40 years at Chevrolet dealership in Battle Creek. He was the Secretary-Treasurer & Sales Manager for DeNooyer Chevrolet Motor Division Sales Manager Association, and gave his time to Battle Creek Credit Managers, the Exchange Club of Battle Creek, Goodwill Industries, Pennfield School Board, served as Secretary for the Brass Band Organization, Secretary for local golf charity tournaments and volunteered numerous hours at the Battle Creek VA. He was an avid athlete with 9 times Battle Creek Tennis Champion, both as City singles champion and doubles with partners, Charlie Kirsh, Jack Mawdsley and Carl Kerber. Roger loved playing golf with his son, Phil and golfing buddies, “The Hackers.” In golf, Roger shot his age from the age of 76 to 89. He enjoyed hunting with his son, Tom, had amazing gardening skills, enjoyed his special trips with his wife Merrilynn and holiday gatherings with his family. A Life Celebration for Roger will be held at the American Legion, 228 N. 20th St., Springfield, MI, on Thursday, February 1, 2018 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Red Cross of Battle Creek or the VA Administration in Ann Arbor.  A private interment with full military honors will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. www.henryfuneralhome.org