Gay Ellen Turner Fundling

Gay Ellen Turner Fundling UPPER October 9, 1952 - May 5, 2025

Gay Ellen Turner Fundling, 72, of Jamaica Beach, Texas, passed away on May 5, 2025, after a brave and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born on October 9, 1952, to Bernard "Gayle" and Helen Turner Burnett, Gay moved to the West End of Galveston in the early 1960s. At age 15, she met Jim Fundling, her high school sweetheart and the love of her life. From that moment on, they were inseparable - marrying in 1972 and building a joyful life together, raising two sons and becoming active members of the Jamaica Beach community.

Gay's journey into real estate began in a hands-on way: she started by cleaning houses for a local real estate company, where her sharp eye, tireless work ethic, and natural connection with people quickly stood out. With the encouragement of her colleagues, she earned her REALTOR license and officially began her real estate career in 1984 with West Galveston Realty. In 2007, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to obtain her Broker License and open her own business, Galveston Island Real Estate. Known for her deep knowledge of the island and her unwavering dedication to her clients, Gay became a trusted and beloved figure in the local real estate world - where her agents, employees, clients and colleagues often became friends.

Within the Jamaica Beach community, Gay was a respected and influential voice. While she never served on the City Council herself, many council members and city managers sought her advice on important matters. She played a key role - alongside other long-time residents - in bringing the Jamaica Beach City Park & Pool to life, a project that will enrich the community for generations. Over the years, Gay was involved in numerous local organizations and committees, always working tirelessly to strengthen the community, support local businesses, and improve the quality of life in Jamaica Beach.

A lifelong adventurer, Gay had an enduring passion for world travel. Her journeys included several cruises and trips to places like California Wine Country, Hawaii, Alaska, The Virgin Islands, England, Wales, Cambodia, Vietnam, Finland, Russia, and especially Caye Caulker, Belize. The Iguana Reef Inn on Caye Caulker became her beloved home away from home - a place she, her family, and her friends returned to "every chance they got." She delighted in the warm waters and vibrant marine life, particularly enjoying fishing and snorkeling along the coral reefs. Fearless and curious, Gay also embraced culinary adventures, always eager to try new and unusual foods wherever she traveled.

Gay's love for Caye Caulker extended beyond its natural beauty - she had a big heart for its people. On every visit, she brought school supplies, clothes, shoes, and other essentials for the island's children, knowing how much these items would mean to families with limited access to such resources. Her generosity left a lasting mark on the community she cherished.

Above all, Gay was deeply devoted to her family. She poured her love, encouragement, and unwavering support into the lives of her sons and grandchildren, celebrating their achievements, guiding them through life's challenges, and making sure they always knew how deeply they were loved. Birthdays were sacred in Gay's world - she believed "You have to have your birthday on your birthday!", no matter what day of the week it fell on. Her famous birthday cakes, adorned with little plastic animals, were a cherished tradition amongst family and friends. Her own birthdays were joyfully spent on the beach with champagne, surrounded by anyone and everyone who wished to join.

Gay found joy in many simple pleasures: cooking and grilling for family and friends, gardening, reading, and fishing the calm waters of West Bay, and too many birthdays and Mother's Day casino trips to count. Friday night Happy Hour on the patio became a beloved tradition, where friends and family gathered to share drinks, laughter, and stories, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Jimmy, her father-in-law, Milton Fundling; her sister-in-law, Lee Cristelli; and her brother-in-law, Glenn Johnson.

Gay is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, James "Jim" Fundling; her sons, Joshua Fundling and Ian Fundling (Julie); and her beloved grandchildren, Marshal Fundling, Samantha Williams, Devon Solari, and Laine Fundling. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, with a third joyfully expected. She is further survived by her mother-in-law, Frances Fundling; sisters-in-law, Lynn Gallo (Jack) and Anne Johnson; as well as a large extended family and countless lifelong friends who will miss her dearly.

Gay's warmth, adventurous spirit, generosity, and dedication to her family, friends, clients, and community touched all who knew her. Her legacy of love, service, and joyful living will continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will be held on the Summer Solstice, Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until dark, in loving memory of Gay.

Family and friends are invited to gather at:

West Galveston Outboard (former Lazy Oaks property)

12410 Stewart Road, Galveston, Texas

Casual and colorful attire is preferred. Please join us as we come together to share memories, stories, and love in celebration of her life.