Funeral service celebrating the life and legacy of Mr. James Louis Gay, 89, of Newnan, will be held on Tuesday, June 5, 2012, at 11 a.m. from the Zion Hill Baptist Church, Reverend W. J. Johnson, pastor/eulogist, officiating. In-state viewing will be held at 9:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, College Park, Georgia. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, June 4, from 6 pm. to 8 p.m. Public viewing, Monday, June 4, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mr. James Louis Gay was born March 3, 1923, to the late Claud Gay and Lunis Cain Gay in Newnan.

A man among men, James was educated in the Coweta County School System.

He entered the US Army Air Force as a supply clerk from 1943-1946. On returning from the military, James joined the workforce with R.D. Cole Manufacturing Company. In 1965, he became a clerk with the United States Postal Service, where he remained and retired in 1988. In 1989 he became the Associate Magistrate Judge with the Newnan Police Department, where he remained until his failed health in February.

James was a man who loved people and his community. He served in several community capacities, including Newnan Housing Authority Commissioner, mentor of the Coweta County School System — Fairmont Elementary, Newnan Crossing Elementary and Ruth Hill Elementary. He was a lifelong member of Zion Hill Baptist Church of Newnan. He served as past Sunday School Supertindent, past Usher Board Secretary, past Chairman of the Trustee Board, and remains as Usher Emeritus. Amongst his many achievements he was the 2002 Man of the Year, he was presented the Oldest Male Member award and recently a Lifetime Acheivement award.

On December 24, 1945, James married the love of his life, Katie Ruth Dawson Gay, and to this union are four children — Reginald, James Michael (Deloris), Kathy and Wayne Sr. (Joyce).

His wife and children and grandchildren remained at his side to rejoice in his home-going. He also leaves to cherish many beautiful memories, his grandchildren — James Michael Jr, Latrice, Camille, Jamal Awun, Ashley, Wayne Jr, Raven and Kyla; great-grandchildren- Joni, Leah, Kameron, Jaden, Mallory, Jalen and Reginald James (RJ).

One grandchild (Reginald Musomi) and one great grandchild (Naomi Elise) preceded him in death. His three siblings also preceded him in death — Annette, Claud, and Kathryn. Also rejoicing in his home-going are nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to Sellers-Smith Funeral Home Inc., 770-253-1607. Express condolences online@www.sellerssmithfh.com .