Elsie "Dubbie" Gay

Elsie Gay, affectionately known as "Dubbie," passed away in the comfort of her home on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on October 6, 1930, in DeQueen, Arkansas, Dubbie spent most of the rest of her life in Paragould until she moved in with her daughter Shirley, in Ash Flat, in 2013.

Alongside her husband, Paul Gay, Dubbie was co-owner of Paul's Watch Shop, where she greatly enjoyed working for many years. Her dedication to her work was matched only by her love for the great outdoors, where she found joy in hunting and fishing.

Her spirit shone brightly in her unwavering faith as a devoted member of Center Hill Baptist Church for over 78 years, where she cherished the opportunity to worship and build lasting friendships. Dubbie was also an active member of the Greene County Fair Board for more than 25 years.

Dubbie leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, deeply missed by her daughter, Shirley Stevenson, and her grandchildren, Michelle Poe Southard (Patrick), Shelah McCord Henson (Dwayne), Carol Strope Keeling (Michael), and Blake Dement (Jill). She is also survived by her sisters, Nadine, Barbara, and Wanda; five great grandchildren; twelve great-great grandchildren; and one great-great-great grandson on the way, and special friends, Leann Reese and Carol McCraken. She was preceded in death by her parents, O.D. and Millie Durham; husband, Paul Gay; daughter, Linda Gay Leggett; grandson, Richard Poe; brother, Durwood Durham; and sisters, Dorothy, Marlene, Iva Lee, and Daisy Mae.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Heath Funeral Home. A visitation will begin at 12:00 PM with funeral services following at 1:00 PM, officiated by Rev. Jeremiah Sanders, and special speaker Nick Henson. Pallbearers will be Blake Dement, Patrick Southard, Urijah Nickell, Meagan Hubbard, Josh Henson, and Nick Henson. Dubbie will be laid to rest in Linwood Cemetery.

In commemorating her life, we celebrate a woman whose warmth, humor, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Dubbie's presence will be sorely missed, but the memories shared will be cherished forever.