James "Mickey" Michael Gay

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Michael Gay, who left us peacefully on September 20, 2025, at the age of 57. Born on July 26, 1968, in Houston, Texas, Mickey, as he was affectionately known, grew up in White Oak, where he became a proud member of the Class of '87 at White Oak High School. His journey took him through various paths in life, working at places like Goodyear in Tyler, Brown & Root in Longview, and contributing to his community at Union Grove ISD and Buckner Westminster in Longview.

Mickey's life was filled with passion and joy. He loved skateboarding and karate in his younger years, and as an adult, his heart raced for the thrill of riding dirt bikes and his beloved custom chopper. But his true passion lay in sharing the love of Jesus. As a devoted member of the White Oak Community Church, he embraced opportunities to serve on the safety team, always ready with a smile and a joke to brighten the day of those around him.

Mickey possessed a contagious smile and a warm hug that could mend even the most broken pieces of a heart. He was known for his kind and giving nature, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Above all, he loved his family fiercely, working tirelessly to provide for them. 

Mickey leaves behind not just a legacy of love and laughter, but a wide family circle that includes his beloved wife Rebecca Gay; his mother, Patty Jo Taylor and step father Mike Taylor; son, Kenneth Andrew Gay; daughters, Brianna Marie Gay and Marie Ann Gay; brother, Bruce Kurt Gay; step brother, Mckenzie Chandler; step sister, Ashley Travis; grandsons, Hunter James Gay and Bodhi Scott Grimes; granddaughters, Adeline Jane Grimes, Lauren Elise Gay, and Ada Camile Gay.

Family and friends are invited to join us for a visitation at Croley Gladewater Funeral Home on September 26, 2025, from 6 to 8 in the evening. A funeral service celebrating Mickey's life will be held at White Oak Community Church on September 27, 2025, at 2 in the afternoon, where we will come together to share stories and cherish the wonderful moments we had with this remarkable man. Following the service, Mickey will be laid to rest at Gladewater Memorial Park.

As we reflect on the joy he brought to our lives, let us remember Mickey as a beacon of light, who touched everyone he met with kindness, laughter, and a heart full of love. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers you can donate to the family at the following link, choose benevolence as the designation for the donation and it will go directly to the family.

https://www.unifiedgiving.com/Give/Index/6#frequency