John Gay Sr., 60, of Des Moines passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 21, 2025. John was born May 25, 1964, to Shirley Jennings and Milo Gay Sr.
He is survived by his wife Cindy of 26 years, his children, Daniel Fisher II, Adam Fisher (Johni), Parker Gay, April Davila, Kathlen Dooley, and John Gay Jr. He is also survived by many grandchildren, Vanessa Fisher, Olivia Fisher, Evie Fisher, Veronika Fisher, Junior and Joey, his brother Milo Gay Jr., (Kathy), sisters, Vickie Stanley, Jeanette Jack (Stan), Tara Castaneda (Mike) and many, many nieces, and nephews.
He is preceded in death by both parents, Shirley Hamm and Milo Gay Sr., sisters, Donna Osborne, Katherine Love, brother, Kenneth Gay Sr., mother-in-law and fathers-in-law, Barbara and Phillip Penn, his aunt Susan Fisher and longtime friend Dorna Calvert.
John was very proud of his three sons and all their accomplishments. He always enjoyed family dinners and never left a leftover behind. John had many jobs in his life from being a cook to being a drywall finisher. However, his most favorite job ever was “Papa John” or Uncle Meathead.”
Visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Brooks Funeral Care, 2135 SW 9th St., Des Moines, IA, the Memorial service will start at 3:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held after the services at Ding Darling Shelter at 2100 Saylor Rd., Des Moines, IA.
