Gayla K Sterrett

Gayla Kay Sterrett, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away at the age of 74 on October 6, 2025, in Beaufort, South Carolina. She was surrounded by her loving family in her final moments.

Born on December 8, 1953, in Anderson, Indiana, Gayla was the youngest child of Louella Bernice Garrison and John William Cooper. She was welcomed into heaven by her five siblings-Jean, Jimmy, Larry, Mary Cynthia, and Johnny-who preceded her in passing.

A 1973 graduate of Madison Heights High School, Gayla went on to raise her two beloved children, Joi Saella Kratz and James William Marcrum, on a small farm filled with love, laughter, and a few unusual pets. She later enjoyed a 25-year career at AUL (OneAmerica), where she met the love of her life, James Larry Sterrett. They were married for 33 wonderful years until his passing, and she missed him dearly every day thereafter.

Gayla had a heart rooted deeply in faith. She was a devoted follower of Christ and shared her beliefs through her international podcast, God's Loving Sacrifice, which touched listeners around the world. She was also a passionate teacher and tutor-known to many as a "jack of all trades." Her talents were vast: photography, drawing, crocheting, knitting, gardening, piano, and so many other crafts filled her days and inspired those around her.

One of her proudest accomplishments came in 2021 when she fulfilled her lifelong dream of completing her college degree-proving to her grandchildren, and to all who knew her, that it's never too late to chase your dreams.

Gayla is lovingly remembered by her children, Joi Saella Kratz (Matthew Donald Kratz) and James William Marcrum (Lori Marcrum); her grandchildren, Dalton Kratz (Taylor Kratz), Rhiannon Kratz, Stephanie Marcrum, and Sean Marcrum; and her great-grandson, Levi Dalton Kratz. Her loyal Yorkie, Lucy Mae Sterrett, will miss her dearly, too.

A special thank you to the staff at the Amedisys for their compassionate care, and a heartfelt acknowledgment to Lori Marcrum for the love, devotion and care she showed in Gayla in her final months.

Gayla bravely battled glioblastoma, and in her memory, the family invites donations to support research and bring hope to others affected by this disease:

Donate to Glioblastoma Research

She will be remembered for her strength, her creativity, her faith, and the unwavering love she gave to all who knew her.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

- Matthew 25:23