Cora Gay

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Cora Mae Gay, lovingly known as “Gigi,” who left us peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on September 23, 1943, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Cora spent her life spreading love, laughter, and warmth wherever she went. In her later years, she called Lubbock, Texas, home—a place where her family gathered, memories were made, and love was always felt.

Cora’s life was full of adventure and she lived every chapter of her life with heart. Whether she was cooking up her famous meals or sharing recipes, going for a motorcycle ride with Orie—her sweetheart and husband of 64 years—or soaking in quiet moments watching hummingbirds and cardinals, Cora had a way of making even ordinary days feel special.

She was happiest surrounded by family. Nothing meant more to her than time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her home was always open, her kitchen always busy, and her arms always ready for a hug. She had a love for Disney that never faded, and a birthday trip there this year that stands out as a perfect reminder of her youthful heart and joy for life. She even loved making lists—endless notes and reminders that showed how much she cared about every detail and every person in her world.

Cora leaves behind a family who adored her: her husband, Orie; her children, Chemayne Satterwhite and husband Steve, Richard Gay and wife Angela, and Lori Goolsby and husband Joel; her grandchildren, Lindsey Larned and husband Jeffery, Whitney Estes and husband Kyler, Taryn Bainum and husband Tyson, Michael Gay and wife Heather, Megan Crisson and husband Oliver, Cole Goolsby and fiancee Summer Downey, Marli Nelson and husband Hunter ; her great-grandchildren, Logan, Layton, Kasen, Madeleine, Caroline, Beren, Jake, Canon, Haiden, Jaxon, Brooklynne, Aspyn, Mackenzie, Cooper and Steelie Mae; and her sister-in-law, Mary Gay. Each of them carries her love and spirit in their hearts.

She was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Richard and Bertha Aycock.

Though we say goodbye for now, Gigi’s love will never leave us. She will be remembered in every family meal, every quiet morning on the porch, every cardinal, every joyful adventure and every “Gigi’ism”. Her life was a gift to us all, and her memory will be cherished always. She will always live in our hearts.

The family would like to thank all of the healthcare providers that touched her life.

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