Mrs. Gay M. James-Parson transitioned peacefully to her heavenly home surrounded by family on March 9, 2020. She was born on September 27, 1959 in Norfolk, VA to the late Ruth Woodhouse McCoy and George Bernard McCoy, Sr. Gay was the sixth child of eight children.
She graduated from Norview High School in 1977. She continued her education at Norfolk State University and graduated with a degree in Health Education. She went back to school and received her certification to teach Special Education. She went on to have a career she loved as a Special Education Teacher at St. Mary’s School for Disabled Children. Gay loved to learn and continued to further her education. She was in the process of working on her thesis for her Masters Degree in Special Education before her illness returned.
She was a member of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church located in Norfolk, VA where she served as a deaconess and choir member. She loved the Lord and the word and read it daily. Her hobbies included singing, reading, and cooking; especially making desserts. Gay was also a diehard Philadelphia Eagles fan and enjoyed watching sports. She loved spending time with her family, especially her sisters. Gay had an infectious smile and always tried to make people laugh. Her best friend, Monica and her twin sister, Gale, who she called her B.F.F., could attest to her smile and humor.
She married Alfred James-Parson on August 19, 1995. During this wedded union they were blessed with a son named Zyon B. James-Parson, born October 10, 2005. She had such a loving, caring spirit and helped people whenever she could. For 10 years, Gay and her husband were foster parents. No matter the situation, Gay’s love always shined through and was constantly felt by her husband, son, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Ira McCoy and George “Bernard” McCoy. Her loving memories will forever be in the hearts and minds of family. Gay’s loving, devoted husband of 26 years, Alfred James-Parson; her sons, Zyon B. James-Parson and Derek Woodburry; her honorary son, Onyx Morris and godson, CJ Dowell; mother-in-law, Helen Parson; brother-in-law, William Lomax; sisters, Bernadette (David), Angela, Cherry, Gale (Carl), and Sonja. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Condolences(13)-
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Jeanette Yates says
March 19, 2020 at 12:42 pmFor ever in my heart.From the Yates (and Batchelor family)
Juanita Holley says
March 19, 2020 at 12:45 pmTo Gay husband, sons and the McCoy family my condolences. I have Known Gay from the day she was born. Gay Gail or Gail Gay is what I called her because I could not always tell them apart. From a little girl she always smiled when I saw her. She will be missed by many,. May you all be comforted by Jehovah God, 2 Corinthians 1:3,4.
Mary Ambrose McMullen says
March 19, 2020 at 1:22 pmWith much love and sympathy. From your cousins. The Ambroses.
Donna James says
March 19, 2020 at 4:26 pmYou are forever in my thoughts. My love and prayers for the family. You are gone but never forgotten. Rest in paradise Gay.
Teresa Anderson says
March 19, 2020 at 6:24 pmMrs. Gay, my dear friend and co-worker, thank you for the many years of support, laughter and love. My condolences to your family. May you rest in paradise.
Love Always,
Teresa
Delphine Freeman says
March 19, 2020 at 9:33 pmTake your well deserved rest. I know the angels sang a beautiful hymn upon your arrival.????
marva Davis says
March 20, 2020 at 7:50 amSending love in place of words and prayers for God to give you all your heart needs as he carries you through.love Marva Davis and the Branch family.
Pam Hunter says
March 20, 2020 at 1:01 pmI met Gay when we worked together many years ago. Her smile and sweet spirit were infectious. I was saddened to hear of her passing. My love and condolences to all of her family.
Love,
Pam Hunter
Angela Vann says
March 20, 2020 at 7:39 pmMy condolences to Alfred, their Sons and the Siblings. Gay has earned her Wings. Fly High and Rest in Jesus. You will be truly missed. Ms Shirley Parham and Angela Vann
Judith Walston-Henderson says
March 20, 2020 at 9:49 pmMay the peace of the lord surround you and comfort you.May you feel his presence during this most difficult journey and in the days to follow. Peace be upon your family.
Millicent James says
March 21, 2020 at 11:41 amTo my cousin’s Al and Zy’on and Aunt Helen and family. The Lord has another beautiful angel in heaven. May you find joy and comfort in knowing Gaye is at peace and always cherish the beautiful memories.
Love you all!
LaCora says
March 21, 2020 at 9:05 pmMrs. Gay, You were one tough lady. You were full of love and light. I admired your heart and the joy you managed to have through it all. You were the epitome of LiveStrong and although I knew you as a foster parent first, going through my recovery with you made you a friend. You lived strong so rest well now. To your family, may you all find comfort and peace. May your memories be sweet reminders always.
Harvey Howard says
March 25, 2020 at 3:33 pmAlfred,
Nancy and I are sadden by your loss. Our prayers go out for the entire family.