Rev. Gaither Lee Day of McKinney, Texas passed away on October 19, 2023. He was born on July 10, 1930, to Lee Earney Day and Fern (Smith) Day in Bismarck, Missouri. On December 30, 1951, Rev. Day married the love of his life, Faye Sinclair. Together, they shared 66 years of marriage until Faye’s passing in 2017.
Rev. Day’s love and devotion to his late wife, Faye, were a testament to the power of enduring love. Theirs was a partnership built on mutual respect, shared dreams, and unwavering support. Rev. Day’s loss was immeasurable, and he carried her memory in his heart each day.
Rev. Day served his country with honor and pride in the United States Marine Corps. His dedication to serving others extended beyond his military service as he became a devoted member North Texas Conference of United Methodist Church.
Rev. Day faithfully served in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area for many years, positively impacting numerous churches and communities. He began his service at Calvary Methodist Church in Weatherford, Texas, where he helped guide the congregation in their spiritual growth and community outreach. Continuing his ministry journey, he then served at Wesley Methodist Church in Corsicana, Texas, further spreading his devotion and providing spiritual guidance to the congregation. He played a pivotal role in the establishment and construction of the First United Methodist of Everman Church, an accomplishment that stands as a testament to his dedication and commitment to his vocation.
Moving from one loving community to another, Rev. Day served at First United Methodist Church in Mart, Texas, and later at First United Methodist Church in Lancaster, Texas, where he continued to foster a sense of community and spiritual growth among the congregations. His unwavering dedication to the word of God led him to Arapaho United Methodist Church in Richardson, Texas, before he was honored with the prestigious Citizen of the Year award at First United Methodist Church in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Continuing his ministry journey, he served at First United Methodist Church in Rockwall, Texas, and later at First United Methodist Church in Paris, Texas, further enriching the lives of the congregations under his care. Finally, the minister dedicated his final years of active ministry at Key United Methodist Church in Sherman, Texas, where he provided spiritual guidance, support, and pastoral care to the Sherman community.
After decades of selfless service, the minister decided to extend his ministry for an additional five years at Callisburg United Methodist Church, where he shared his wisdom, experience, and compassion with the community. Throughout his service, the minister has exemplified a deep love for God and a genuine care for those he served. His impact is not only evident through the growth and development of the churches he served but also in the countless lives he has touched and transformed along the way. The minister’s unwavering commitment to his calling and his tireless dedication to spreading God’s love have left an indelible mark on the Dallas-Fort Worth Area and beyond.
Throughout his life, Rev. Day demonstrated unwavering faith and commitment to his congregation, offering guidance and support to all who crossed his path. His compassionate nature and gentle spirit became a source of comfort for many. In addition to his church duties, Rev. Day was known for his warm and welcoming nature. His genuine interest in others and his ability to listen made him a trusted confidant and a beloved friend.
As a father and grandfather, Rev. Day embraced his role with love and enthusiasm. His children and grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he took pride in watching them grow and succeed. Rev. Day leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, compassion, and values that will continue to guide and inspire future generations. His dedication to the communities he served, his unwavering faith, and his love for his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.
He is survived by his sons, Benjamin Day and wife, Sonia of Frisco, Texas and Jonathan Day of Dallas, Texas; grandchildren, Paul Day of Dallas, Texas, Jordan Day of Leander, Texas, and Hillary Sartin of Sulphur Springs, Texas; great-grandchildren, Connor Day, Josie Day and Ender Day; niece, Barbara Kahle of St. Louis, Missouri; and numerous other loving family members and friends.
Rev. Day was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Faye Day; parents, Lee and Fern Day; and brothers, Leroy Day, Paul Day, William Day, John Day and an infant brother.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 28, 2023 at Custer Road United Methodist Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano, Texas 75023 with Dr. Don Renshaw, Dr. Kory Knott, Dr. Jack Wallace, and Rev. Jack Gibson officiating. Following the service, a procession will make its way to Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013 for a committal service.
The family will receive family and friends during a visitation on Friday evening, October 27, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.
Memorial contributions may be given in Rev. Day’s memory to Friday Nite Friends @ Custer Road United Church and Treasured Times Care for Alzheimer’s Patients in care of Custer Road United Methodist Church in Plano.
