Gayetta Ruth Blake

In loving memory of Gayetta Ruth Blake, who passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on January 2, 1937, in the quaint town of Iaeger, West Virginia, Gayetta was a beacon of love, warmth, and resilience to all who knew her. She was the beloved daughter of Sam Fredditt Payne and Hattie Lou Keaton, whose spirits she now joins in eternal peace. Gayetta's life was a tapestry of dedication, family, and community spirit. A remarkable woman of steadfast faith, she found solace and strength as a devoted member of the River of Life Church for over 45 years. Her commitment to her church and its community was unwavering, and she was cherished for her kindness and generosity. Her long and esteemed career as a waitress spanned over five decades, during which she touched countless lives with her radiant smile and impeccable service. In addition to her work in hospitality, Gayetta was a vibrant entrepreneur, sharing her passion for quality household and beauty products as a successful salesperson for Avon, Tupperware, and Princess House. Her clients often became lifelong friends, drawn to her charismatic personality and genuine interest in their well-being. An avid shopper with a keen eye for fashion, Gayetta was renowned for her impeccable style and her ability to find the best deals. She never missed an opportunity for a sale and enjoyed sharing her finds with her extensive family, ensuring that they were always dressed to impress and surrounded by beauty. Gayetta was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eugene Blake, with whom she shared many years of happiness, and by her cherished granddaughter Kristen Kecskes and grandson Jon Arnold. Her legacy lives on through her loving children: daughters Toni White, Terri White, Traci Wood (Barry), and Jeannie Williamson (Jamie); sons James White (Chris) and Eugene Blake. She is also survived by her devoted brothers Freeman Payne, Larry Payne, and Kenneth Payne, and her caring sister, Janis McDonald. A matriarch in every sense, Gayetta's family was her pride and joy. Her heart was large enough to embrace her twenty grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Her cherished family gatherings were filled with laughter, love, and the delicious aromas of her home-cooked meals. Gayetta's life was a testament to the values of love, faith, and perseverance. She leaves behind a legacy of grace and strength, inspiring all who knew her to live with courage and compassion. Her absence will be profoundly felt, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. A celebration of Gayetta's life will be held at the River of Life Church, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember a remarkable woman who was truly a gift to us all. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the River of Life Church, in memory of Gayetta's enduring faith and dedication. Rest in peace, dear Gayetta. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.