Lula Gay Salyer

LULA GAY SALYER, 87, of Foster, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice House, Charleston, WV surrounded by her loving family. Known as Gay to family and friends, her departure leaves a quiet ache in the hearts of those who knew her, but her legacy of kindness, resilience, and devotion will echo for generations.
Gay was born December 19, 1937, and raised in Fuget, Kentucky, the daughter of the late James Henry and Alverta "Allie" (Cantrell) Salyer, where she carried strong family values throughout her life. She married the love of her life, James Arthur "Jim" Salyer on June 30, 1956, before making their home in West Virginia. Gay was the last surviving of 11 siblings who preceded her passing. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose love was the steady heartbeat of her family.
Gay was known for her unwavering faith, her gentle humor, and her ability to make anyone feel at home. She brought a positive spirit into everything she did, whether it was tending her garden with care, preparing family meals that became cherished traditions, or offering a listening ear and wise counsel to neighbors and friends. Her hands were rarely still, always gardening, canning, or crafting something beautiful.
She is survived by her husband of 69 years Jim Salyer, of Foster, WV, children Alverta Sue Flack (Dwight) of Foster, WV; Jackie Eugene Salyer of Summersville, WV; and Cozetta Gay Miller (Rodney) of Madison, WV. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren, Amy Smith (Jacob) of Dandridge, TN; Christopher McGee (Caitlyn) of Charleston, SC; Jennifer Miller of Lexington, KY; Michael Miller of Selden, NY; Peydon Salyer and Brandon (Brooke) Kyle, both of Summersville, WV. Surviving are her special great grandchildren, Ben and Baylee Kyle of Summersville, WV; Trey and Chase Smith of Dandridge, TN, and Annie Shay and Eleanor James McGee of Charleston, SC. Gay also leaves behind a wide circle of extended family and friends who will miss her deeply. Though her voice has quietened, her spirit remains in the laughter she inspired, the traditions she upheld, and the love she gave so freely.
Gay served her community and her church for years. Serving the children of Foster Grade School as a cook, secretary of Rock Creek Grade School, she also spent time helping others as a home health service provider. She served as a 4-H leader in Boone County for 13 years with the Foster Go-Go's. She was a devoted member of Madison Baptist Church for 60 years where she diligently served as New Fellowship Sunday School secretary, children's nursery, on the hostess and flower committees, wedding coordinator to name a few. She helped make sure fresh flowers were available for every service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making contributions in Gay's honor to the Madison Baptist Church Food Pantry, 426 2nd St., Madison, WV 25130.
The family would like to extend their eternal gratitude to Gay's healthcare team at Boone Memorial Hospital, CAMC General Division ICU and especially Hubbard Hospice House where she received truly exceptional and loving care.
Funeral services will be 2 p. m., Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Handley Funeral Home in Danville, WV with Pastor Jim Butcher officiating. Visitation to be held prior to the service from 12-2 p.m. Burial to follow at Boone Memorial Park in Madison, WV.
You may express your condolences to the family at: www.handleyfh.com