Audrey Gayle Pelkey

Audrey Gayle Pelkey, age 87, passed away on December 8, 2024. Born on Christmas Day to George Washington Whisman and Mildren Omega Houseman in Jacksonville, Florida; Gayle was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She occupied the same residence on Grove Bluff Circle East in St. Johns, Florida for the past forty-six years.

Gayle is best known to all as a talented artist, crocheter, avid reader, former beauty queen, and friendly neighbor. A refined woman, she built her life with her ambition, resiliency, and perseverance. She was a collector of simple things that brought joy to her life including porcelain and China dolls along with many plants and flowers she took care to nurture.

Preceding her in death was her husband and the love of her life, Richard Allen Pelkey; her three daughters Sandra Jane Grizzard, Cynthia Gayle Dawson, Cheryl Lynn Varn; grandson Robert Allen Bacom, Jr., and brother George Whisman. She is survived by her son, Robert Allen Bacom, Sr.; grandchildren Gary Lee Medders, Jr., Bobby Medders, Mindy Poston (John), Richard Varn, Crystal Varn (Daniel), Billy Dawson V, Cody Bacom (Annie), Jeff Dawson (Valerie), Harris Grizzard III, Tyler Dawson; fifteen great grandchildren; along with special friends and caretakers who have loved and cared for her.

A celebration of life for Audrey will be held Friday, December 20, 2024 at 10:30 AM at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223.