Gilbert Randolph Hay

Gilbert Randolph Hay, Sr. passed away Saturday, November 16, 2019 with his beloved wife of 72 years by his side. Gilbert was born October 18, 1921 to Madeline Ruff Hay and Malcolm Hay in Norristown, Pennsylvania.

There he spent his childhood. At the start of World War II, Gil enlisted in the army. He rose to the rank of Captain in the Army Airforce, flying B-24 Bombers over France, Belgium, and Germany completing an astonishing thirty-five missions. His final mission was December 23, 1944, providing air support in the relief of Bastogne. Gil was awarded the Air Medal, with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters.

During his post-war service, Gilbert met the love of his life, Joyce Lasater, and they were married January 18, 1947. Together they created a life built on faith, family, and service. Gil and Joyce were charter members of Bethel Lutheran Church where Gilbert served as an elder. After attending UT Arlington, Gilbert worked as an electrical distributor for Arrow-Hart Co. and Hodges Electrical.

Gilbert excelled at baseball and football and enjoyed many hobbies including woodworking, gardening, and grilling. He built furniture for family, and birdhouses, dollhouses, and train villages for grandchildren. A favored pastime was entertaining family and friends at their home.

Gilbert is survived by his loving wife; son, Gilbert Randolph Hay, Jr. (Randy) and his wife, Laurie Hay; daughter, Jennifer (Jena) and son-in-law, Dr. Thomas Russell. Loving grandchildren are Meredith Russell Francis, Lesley and husband, George O’Leary and Robert Lasater Hay. Great-grandsons adoring “Papa” are Jackson Francis, Andrew Francis, Michael O’Leary and William O’Leary. Cousins are Marilyn Whatley and Suzanne Buhrer. Nieces and their spouses are Bobbie & Pittman McGehee, Vic & David Dollarhide, and Deb & Jeff Greene, along with many loving children and grandchildren.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Ruth, Eleanor, Helen, Dorothy; brother, Malcolm; nephews, Gilbert (Gibby) and David; niece, Phyllis, as well as infant daughter, Ana Katrina and infant son, Robert.

Graveside service is 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at Grove Hill. J. Pittman McGehee, D.D. will officiate and Pastor Randy Haedge will speak.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel Lutheran Church, Dallas, TX. www.betheldallas.org