Gay Griffith McKeown

Gay was born January 15,1948 to David Elmer Griffith and Lollie Keener Griffith. She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

She is survived by her loving and devoted son, Trey McKeown, daughter in law, Courtney McKeown, and four beautiful grandchildren, Caris Claire, Mikiyas Zion, Addisyn Kathryn “Addie Kate,” and Eliana Elisabeth McKeown, who affectionately called her, “Gigi,” and were the joy of her heart. She was known for surprising them with Krispy Kreme birthday cake donuts, cheering them on in their activities, and especially loved celebrating Christmas together.

Some of her favorite memories were spent with the Keener family. She always looked forward to celebrating special occasions together, decorating for holidays, receiving a fresh cut and color from her cousin, Susan, visiting her cousin Cathy and children, eating family dinners, and of course, enjoying Aunt Sara’s famous brownies. Gay joyfully looked forward to all the Butler family adventures as well, watching her grandchildren play soccer, sharing stories and laughs over meals, celebrating birthdays together, and enjoying special Christmas traditions with each other. In addition, her best friend of more than sixty years, and Trey’s godmother, Fleta “Peta” Windell and the entire Windell family, held a special place in her heart. She was also well loved by her caring neighbors for many years in Gastonia and Charlotte.

Gay will be remembered for her love of others, joy of gift giving, going on lunch dates and shopping trips with her many friends, passion for teaching, care for animals, creativity, attention to detail, and excitement for the Christmas season. Gay graduated from Harding High School and Appalachian State University. She faithfully and lovingly invested her life teaching individuals with disabilities for 38 years at Metro School. Her school family established treasured lifetime friendships. She is a member of Myers Memorial United Methodist Church in Gastonia, NC, where she joyfully served in many ways. We praise God, according to His great mercy, for the eternal inheritance, “that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading (1 Peter 1:3-4),” Gay has now received because of the finished work of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

A graveside service will be held at 9:30am on Saturday, June 18, 2022 at Forest Lawn West Cemetery, 4601 Freedom Drive in Charlotte. We will celebrate her life and the hope we have in our risen Lord at First ARP Church, 317 South Chester Street in Gastonia, Saturday, June 18 at 11am in the Chapel. A visitation and reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall at 12pm.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gay’s honor to Special Olympics, Camp Joy Bonclarken, or The Humane Society of Charlotte.