Bonham, Texas -- Doretha Gay, 83, of Bonham, Texas, affectionately known as “Re,” died peacefully on March 4, 2026.

Doretha was born on October 20, 1942, in Ector, Texas, to Clarence Vernon and Margie Faye (Taylor) Baker, and developed a strong work ethic at a young age working on the family farm. She attended Ector High School, where she was a talented basketball player.

In 1962, she married Jerry Gay and became secretary-receptionist for the Dallas Cowboys football club, where she was known as “Rusty.” They moved back to Ector in 1975 to raise their two children. Doretha and Jerry later moved to Bonham, where she worked at the Sam Rayburn Library until her retirement in 2006.

Doretha was a true people person and a gifted storyteller, who served as a bright light in the lives of everyone she met. A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, she remained dedicated to her family throughout her life. Her hobbies included bargain hunting at garage and estate sales for eclectic treasures, refinishing antiques, creating floral arrangements, and decorating her home. Her impeccable sense of style was a reflection of her beautiful soul - a true beauty inside and out.

Doretha was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Jerry Gay; her sister Wanda Baker Cabell; and her parents, Vernon and Margie Baker. She is survived by her children, Jason Gay, and Dr. Madelyn Gay Morris; daughter-n-law, Denise Gay; son-in-law, Dr. Michael Morris; two grandchildren, Kelly Jack and Julian Gambrel; and her sister, Diann Lodwick and husband John, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home in Bonham, with refreshments to follow.

To share a memory or leave an online condolence please visit, www.coopersorrells.com