Obituary of Donna Gay

Donna Bernard Gay, 85, of Dallas, Texas died unexpectedly on October 7, 2021, from injuries sustained in an vehicle accident. Her loss was completely unexpected and the family is shocked and deeply saddened. Donna was born on June 11, 1936, to Vincent Leo and Evelyn Patava Bernard in Waterloo, Iowa. Although Donna always considered herself an only child, she is survived by 6 siblings, Geraldine (Gerald) Martinson, Vincent Eugene (Nyleta) Bernard, Dennis Lee (Sandra) Bernard, David Joseph Bernard, Vicky Jo Bernard and Cynthia Ann Perry as well as many nephews and nieces. Donna is predeceased by her parents, her husband, Laurel E. Gay and special friend, Ron Roberts. Donna had a long and very accomplished administrative law career beginning after high school graduation until her retirement in 1999. She retired from Cowles and Thompson after 21 years, having survived the perilous waters of law firm administration. While Donna held a full-time job she received her BA degree from University of Texas at Dallas. After retiring she devoted time to several organizations including Susan B. Komen Race for the Cure. One of Donna's most recent passions was sewing stuffed animals (hundreds of them) and blankets for Genesis Women's Shelter and Support. She loved going on gambling trips with family. She also loved all Dallas sports. She attended the art/music programs and museums that Dallas has to offer. She liked to read, walk, watch movies and spending time with friends over a glass of wine or a cup of coffee. Chocolate was her idea of the perfect food. Anyone who knew Donna, knew that she was kind, giving, gracious, beautiful, classy, and had an off-beat sense of humor. She was a good sport as long as she was winning at Pepper and Kings on the Corner. She was always there with a hug and a smile. Donna's family and friends will miss her more than words can say. Contributions in memory of Donna can be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or a charity of your choice. A celebration of life will be held for Donna at 2 P.M., on October 22, 2021 at Spring Valley United Methodist Church, 7700 Spring Valley Road, Dallas.