Elizabeth Ganell Lay

Elizabeth Ganell Burkes Lay passed from this life on July 6, 2017. Elizabeth was born in Jackson, MS, on May 28, 1926, to Gayle and Cordie Neely Burkes. She was educated in the Jackson Public School System and graduated from Central High School in 1944. She continued her education at Jackson Commercial College, and upon graduation, initially entered the workforce at Aponaug Manufacturing Company. She later continued her career as an executive secretary at MS Stationery Company (Offisource) where she was a devoted and valued employee for 43 years, retiring in 1992.

Elizabeth enjoyed spending time with her family and friends; shopping; yard work; beach trips; listening to talk radio programs; reading the daily newspaper and comics; and watching professional and SEC football, especially her beloved Ole Miss Rebels. She also was a "master of the TV remote control" as she would view several movies and broadcasts simultaneously! She faithfully supported various charities throughout her life. Her warm, outgoing ways and quick wit easily led to the formation of numerous lasting friendships. Her memory was amazing as she, at any given time, could perfectly quote lines of literature and poetry from her high school days. Her mind was different from anyone else's. Her experiences, opinions, beliefs, and feelings were completely unique. Her individuality was her hallmark. What a joy to know and love her!

She loved the Lord, had a strong faith, and was a loyal life-long member of Galloway Memorial Methodist Church from the age of seven.

She was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Dorothy Gene Burkes, a special cousin, Deloise West, a baby sister, and grand-dogs, Frito and Coalby Lay. She is survived by her daughter, Donnie Gayle Lay, of Brandon, several cousins, and her dear friends.

Visitation will be at Parkway Funeral Home Tuesday July 11, 2017 from12:00pm to2:00pm with a funeral service to follow in the Chapel at 2:00pm. Interment will take place in the family plot at Lakewood Memorial Park on Clinton Blvd. If desired, memorials may be made to CARA, Galloway Memorial Methodist Church, Sunnybrook Children's Home, The Gleaners, the Salvation Army, or the charity of your choice.

"If thou shouldest never see my face again, pray for my soul for more things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of."

("King Arthur'', Alfred Lord Tennyson)

I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you.

Isaiah 42:6

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