Gay Ellis Simi

Gay Ellis Simi passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025 at the age of 85 with her daughter, Patricia Simi Gresham, at her side. She was a native and resident of Bedford, Texas. Gay was known for her strong will and love of her family. She was born on November 10, 1939 in Crockett, Texas to Bennie and Estelle Ellis.

After graduating from Crockett High School, Gay earned an Associate’s degree from Sam Houston State University where she was a proud member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. Gay worked as a secretary prior to staying home to raise her daughter. Later on, Gay attended the El Centro Cooking School in Dallas where she received a degree in the culinary arts.

Gay married Louis “Lou” Simi on May 22, 1966. They remained close throughout their lives and committed to spending time with their daughter, Patricia, and granddaughters, Sydney and Lily. Gay enjoyed playing tennis, reading and travelling. She loved to cook and host parties. She also believed in the importance of volunteering for underserved communities.

Gay was preceded in death by her parents, Bennie and Estelle Ellis; her sisters, Jane Ellis Cornelius, Patsy Ellis Rhone, and Betty Ellis Rhone; her former husband, Louis Simi; and two of her nephews, Raymond Cornelius and Brian Rhone.

Gay Simi is survived by her daughter, Patricia Simi Gresham and her two granddaughters, Lillian Gresham Randolph and Sydney Bryn Gresham. She is also survived by her nephews and nieces, Rhonda Ortmayer, Donna Nichols, Jim Rhone, Jody Rhone Jr., Jamie Cornelius, and Ragin Cornelius.

Gay's services will be held on Saturday, July 12th, at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home 5725 Colleyville Blvd. Colleyville, Texas 76034. Visitation will start at 10 a.m. and will be followed by the funeral at 11 a.m. Family and friends are invited to come and share fond memories and stories.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Tarrant County Food Bank in honor of Gay.

To leave an online condolence to the family, please visit BluebonnetHills.com