of Batesville, AR
April 15, 1937 - May 9, 2023
Anita Gay, 86, of Batesville passed away Tuesday, May 9, 2023.
She was born on April 15, 1937 in Wolf Bayou and was the daughter of Velma (Landrum) and Charles Johnson, one of eleven children and the last remaining sibling.
She married O.L. Gay on June 22, 1954 in Floral and together they saw the world since he was in the Armed Forces. Living in Bermuda was one of her most memorable times. Her happiest time was when she gave birth to their only son, Russell Dean.
She was a long-time member of Calvary Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School for over 30 years. She retired from the Clinic Drug Store after 29 years.
She was an excellent cook but was best known by everyone for her awesome cakes, especially wedding cakes. She could sew, quilt, knit and crochet anything. If you were lucky enough, her famous white kitchen dish clothes were her specialty and given as gifts.
She is survived by many, many nieces and nephews as well as grand and great-grand ones.
Anita was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, O.L. and her son, Rusty; as well as brothers, Harold, Loyd, Gerald, Jack, Raymond, Stanley and Luther and sisters, Allene, Marilyn and Marlene.
Visitation will be Sunday, May 14, 2023, 5:00-7:00 at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home, Batesville. Graveside services will be Monday, May 15, 2023, 2:00pm at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Floral, officiated by Bro. Larry Sellers.
The family would like to thank the staff at White River Medical Center and Woodlawn Nursing Facility for all the care they provided the last several years.
The Johnson family wants to express our heartfelt gratitude to Ronnie, Wesley and Wayne Gay for filling the role of "sons" to our special aunt. Thank you.
Memorials may be made in her honor to Cedar Grove Cemetery, 1220 Wagon Wheel Rd, Floral, AR, 72534.
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8 Condolence(s)
Chris and Kristal Allen
Sunday, May 14, 2023
Chris and I have known Ms. Anita all our lives and has been special friends with Jess and Sally for many years. She made our beautiful wedding cake 34 years ago. We are so sorry to hear of her passing but heaven gained a true angel. Praying for you all.
Danny Mitchell
Friday, May 12, 2023
Sorry to hear of Anita passing went to Calvary Baptist Church with her and O L for years a very Christian Lady Heaven’s Gain she maid my daughter Heather Wedding Cake. Prayers for Family
Betty Burge Cockrill
Friday, May 12, 2023
I am so sorry to hear about Anita. She has made cakes for my family, went to church with her and her family and worked in the Medical Arts Building with her for several years. My thoughts and prayers are with each of her families. Heaven gained a precious lady.
Twila Jackson
Friday, May 12, 2023
I am so sorry to hear of Anita's passing. My late husband, Allen Lloyd (her cousin from Kansas), always enjoyed visiting with her and OL when we would visit their Aunt Hollis. Know that she will be missed by many. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you.
Lisa Johnson
Friday, May 12, 2023
I'm so sorry to hear of Miss Anita's passing. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a loving heart. It was a privilege and honor to take care of her at Woodcrest. My prayers are with her family for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Deloris Hook
Thursday, May 11, 2023
She made the cake for my 40th birthday. It was not only delicious but creative. She was always so nice when we ran into each other. She will be missed by many, but now in a place grander than this earth can ever be.
Allen Nichols
Thursday, May 11, 2023
I loved Aunt Nita. I always looked forward to seeing them. She made me some of Grandmas chocolate gravey at a family reunion.
Sharon McSpadden
Thursday, May 11, 2023
I knew Anita for many years. She made all the birthday cakes for my boys when they were younger. I met her when I worked in the Medical Arts Building. I will be in prayer for her family â¤ï¸