Friday, November 28, 2008 9:14 pm

HENDERSONVILLE - Clara “Marie” Strickland Gay, 78, died Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2008, at her daughter’s home.

Born July 21, 1930 in Nash County, she lived most of her life in Ayden, in Pitt County where she raised her family.

Surviving: daughter and son-in-law, Tracey Lynn Gay and Keith Edward Fields, of Hendersonville; son, Spencer Earl Gay, of Ayden; grandson, Brandon Perry Gay, of Grimesland; siblings, S.G. Strickland (Betty), of Rocky Cross, Jimmy Strickland (Barbara), of Pongo Shores; and Katie Avery (Gene); several nieces, a nephew, and a dear friend, James Lou Petty, of Grifton.

In addition to her parents, Spencer and Artelia Strickland, she was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Claude Perry Gay.

A celebration of her life will be at 10 a.m. today (Saturday, Nov. 29) at Ayden United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Four Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care, 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock NC 28731 or to a charity of one’s choice.

To read more and sign the online register, visit www.shulerfuneralhome.com. Arrangements handled by Shuler Funeral Home, Hendersonville.