Anthony Gay Jr. was born on June 14, 1962, in Wrzburg, Germany, to the union of Anthony Gay and Bettie Gay (Thornton). A proud graduate of John R. Buchtel High School Class of 1981, Anthony went on to serve three years in the US Army and later found fulfillment in his career, retiring as Regional Manager from RGIS Inventory. Anthony, affectionately known as Tony, and Uncle to his nieces and nephews, left a lasting impact on the lives of many. He will be fondly remembered by family and friends for his love of cooking and talent for decorating and making any space he was in beautiful.

On February 25th, 2024, Anthony transitioned hand in hand with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, from earthly existence to everlasting life. Preceding him in death were his brothers Prescott Prade and Adika Gay; paternal grandfather Reverend George Gay; paternal grandmother Rosa Lee Jackson; maternal grandmother Fannie Calhoun and maternal grandfather Alfonso Lee Calhoun Sr.

Left to celebrate his life and forever cherish his memory are his father Reverend Anthony (Diane) R. Gay Sr. of Illinois; mother Bettie Gay of Akron, Ohio; sons Kevin (Symphonie Smith) Gay of Bowie, Maryland, Kennard Gay of Cleveland, Ohio and Donovan Fikes of Akron, Ohio; daughter Dawnielle (Robert) Higgins of Akron, Ohio. Anthony is also survived by his brothers, Akil (Princess) Gay of Akron, Ohio, special brother Richard Saunders of Akron, Ohio, and Terrell (Chiquita) Mason of Illinois; sisters Pam Gay, Teresa (Derek) Williams, Abeni Wright, all of Akron, Ohio, Qiana (Jovan) Dukes of Illinois; Godsister Leisa Collins, of Texas; grandchildren Robert Gay of Cleveland Ohio; Amari Gay, Huey Gay, and Mykah Gay all of Bowie, Maryland, and special niece, his first love, Jamille Gay of Akron, Ohio.

Anthony was also blessed with a multitude of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss his dynamic physical presence, his memorable laugh, and warm smile tremendously. While we mourn his passing, we rest assured that Anthony’s spirit will always remain and that God remains the sustaining power.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 9th, 2024, at 10:00am at Stewart and Calhoun Funeral Home, located at 529 W. Thornton St., Akron, Ohio 44307. Friends may pay their respects from 9:30am until the time of the service. Condolences may be sent to 928 Roslyn Avenue, Akron, Ohio 44320.