James W. Gay

James was born on August 13, 1953, in Houston, Texas, just one year and one week after his older brother, John. August became a popular month in the Gay family and was celebrated for many years as one giant party and a highlight of the year for James. He always looked forward to the time spent together as a family.

James' childhood was spent near downtown Houston until moving to Spring Branch where he graduated from Spring Branch High School in 1972. After high school, James went to work and spent the majority of his working years as an automobile insurance adjuster. While living in Bastrop, James was a member of the Circle D Volunteer Fire Department, spending many hours helping protect the Bastrop area from devastating wildfires. He was proud to serve his community and took great pride in being a part of the fire department.

James left us to be with God on June 5, 2024. He is preceded in death by his son, Frank Deil Gay, his grandmother, Annie Baklik, and his stepfather, Frank Thomas.

James is survived by his wife of 40 years, Tamara Gay; his son, Richard “Andy” Brasher and wife Amy; and his daughter, Krystal Hill and husband George. He is also survived by his mother, Margie Thomas, and brother, John Gay. He leaves behind many other family members and friends.

His legacy will continue to live on though his five grandchildren who were truly the lights of his life: Michael James “MJ” Brasher (son of Andy and Amy); Connor Brasher and wife Claire, Max Hill, Avery Hill, and Cullen Hill, sons and daughter of Krystal and George.

Nothing brought James more joy than spending time with his kids and grandkids, whether that was out hunting and fishing with Andy and MJ, or spending hours in the pool with Krystal, Connor, Max, Avery, and Cullen. When the family was together, you could count on James to be hard at work preparing a delicious meal for everyone -- he was an excellent cook -- and he never failed to make sure there was something on the menu that everyone enjoyed. James was a proud son, husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family dearly and who was, in turn, loved even more.

Son, Husband, Brother, Dad, PawPaw, you will be missed always; rest easy until we meet again.