Mr. William Audley Gay was born September 19, 1943. He entered his eternal home, May 3, 2024. He was the son of the late Barney and Emma Gay. He was preceded in death by his parents, one granddaughter, Kannon Gay, one sister Eva Murrell and one brother, Claude Gay.
Audley is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mrs. Laura Grace Gay. Son, Mr. Brent Audley Gay, grandson, Connor and granddaughter Kenlee. Son, Dr. William Jerome Gay and wife, Dr.
Natasha Gay, grandsons, Dylan, Devan, and Brody and granddaughter, Lauren. He is also survived by a host of friends and relatives.
In 1967, at the age of 24, Sligo Baptist Church, South Lebanon, Ohio, Audley surrendered his life to Christ. Shortly after his conversion, God called him into the ministry to preach, witness and spread God’s word. During Audley’s ministry, he preached revivals, funerals, and joined many couples in marriage. Many souls were saved, lives rededicated and lives changed during his ministry. Audley’s greatest passion was to read God’s word, witness and pray. His prayers most always began with “Holy Master”. Today Audley is praising his Master.
Audley earned an Elementary Education degree from Eastern Kentucky University in 1971, and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Morehead State University in 1979. He also earned a lifetime teaching certificate and Rank I certification.
Audley taught in the Owsley County School district from 1965 until 1966. He then taught in the Deerfield Union School District, Kings Mill, Ohio from 1966-1970. He taught one semester at Midway, Kentucky, returned to Lee County School District and served 38 years as a teacher and administrator. He retired twice from the Lee County Board of Education.
Audley was known for his jovial and friendly personality. He never met a stranger. During his years of public education and as a leading citizen of Owsley County, he touched thousands of lives. A celebration of life will take place at the Booneville Presbyterian Church, Wednesday, May 8 at 1:00 p.m. Visitation at the Booneville Presbyterian Church, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The service was conducted by Rev. Darius Salter who has been Audley’s close friend for over a half century. Others who officiated Mr. Gay’s celebration of life were Rev. Terry Sandlin, Rev. Paul Shepherd, Rev. Tim Charlton, Rev. Lonnie Moore, Rev. Buddy Johnson, Rev. William Owens.
Pall Bearers: Marvin Wilson, Larry Cornett, Ed Neeley, Zeke Little, Jeff Combs, Darrell Dooley, Keith Murrell and Monte Murrell
Searcy and Strong Funeral Home in charge of all arrangements.
