Gayetta Ruth Blake

She was born on January 2, 1937, in Iaeger, West Virginia, the daughter of Samuel Frederick Payne and Hattie Lou Keaton. Gayetta carried the strength, resilience, and warmth of her Appalachian roots throughout her life. She was known for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and deep love for her family.

Gayetta enjoyed working, shopping, and attending church, where her faith provided comfort, strength, and fellowship throughout her life. She found great joy in the simple things and especially in time spent with her family. Her love and presence created a lasting legacy that will be treasured by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Frederick Payne and Hattie Lou Keaton; her husband, Eugene Blake; her granddaughter, Kristen Simone Kecskes; and her grandson, Jon Richard Arnold.

She is survived by her daughters, Toni White, Terri White, Traci Wood (Barry), and Jeannie Williamson (Jamie); and her sons, James White (Christine) and Eugene F. Blake (Jennifer). She is also survived by her brothers, Freeman Payne, Larry Payne, and Kenneth Payne; and her sister, Janis McDonald. Gayetta leaves behind 20 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

A visitation will be held at River of Life Assembly of God, 1890 N Courtenay Pkwy. Merritt Island, FL on Saturday May 2, 2026 at 10am with a Funeral to follow at 11am.

A Committal service will be held at Cocoa Memorial Park, 320 Spring St. Cocoa, FL at 12:45pm.

Gayetta will be deeply missed and forever loved by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.