M. “Gay” Smith, 82, passed away April 26, 2017, in Raymond. Gay was born to Orrie and Dorothy McCoy in Dryad, Wash., Nov. 1, 1934.
She graduated from Pe Ell High School at 16 and went on to attend Marylhurst College in Portland, Ore. Soon after entering, she married R. “Dean” Smith in 1952. They were married for 17 years and had four children together.
Gay worked at the Weyerhaeuser mill in Raymond, until her retirement, after 35 years. Later in her life, while working full-time at the mill, Gay commuted back and forth to Evergreen State College in Olympia, obtaining her four year degree. This was an accomplishment that made all who knew her very proud.
In 1971, Gay met the love of her life, Gary Ross, who survives her at the family home. Gay and Gary loved the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, digging clams, mushroom picking and nearly any other adventure that related to nature. They also traveled together over the years to Mexico, Hawaii, New Orleans and to many other areas of the United States.
Gay was preceded in death by her parents, Orrie and Dorothy; and her brother, Kenneth McCoy.
Survivors include her sister, Ellen; four children, Lori Smith, Douglas Smith, Philip Smith and Lisa Smith. Additional survivors include grandchildren, Angie, Alicia, Tyler, Wyatt, Brynn and Jennifer; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Gay will always be remembered as a wonderful, giving mother, who always put family first and for her kindness and her beautiful smile.
Per Gay’s request, there will be no service.
