Shirley Ann Gay

Shirley Ann Gay, 71 of Columbia passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the University Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Shirley was born in Fulton, MO., to Opal Cinderella Gay Weaver. She is a long-time resident of Columbia, MO. She worked at University Hospital for 20 years, Woodhaven for many years and foster mother for the state of Missouri.
Shirley had goals at a young age she wanted to travel the world and leave for the military. Shirley at a young age, seeing her mother be a single parent having gone through hard times that Shirley just realized her purpose was to be there for those who couldn't be there for themselves. Shirley put her life goals on back burner and became a second mother to family of twelve. Overnight Shirley had to become the family doctor, lawyer, judge and life skills teacher. Shirley spent her entire life dedicated to others having a life surrounded by faith and love!
Shirley will be lovingly remembered by her daughters Marie, Angela and Ashley Gay. Her granddaughters Whitney Tolbert, Ebony, Candice, Montiana and Ja' Mya Gay, Star Warren and Grandson Joseph Jones. Two brothers George Gay and Jeffrey Weaver. Five sisters Ruthie, Ida, Brenda, Joyce and Dorthy Weaver. Seven great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins. Especially her co-workers, friends & best friends of many years, Everett Hughes.
Shirley was preceded in death by her mother Cinderella, brothers Albert, Tommy & John, Aunts Hattie & Ruth, Grandson Quillan Jacobs, nephew Dallas Humphreys and Sheets Cousins.
Friends will be received from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 and will be immediately followed by a memorial service.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.