Gaynelle Rosezella Lawyer

Gaynelle was born January 22, 1942, to Marion and Gaynelle Woodfin in Riverside, CA. She peacefully passed away July 19, 2026, after a long illness.

After her parents divorced, Gay spent her early years living with her grandparents, the Doolittle's, while her father was stationed in various locations with the Air Force. Her father later married Mona Ridings of England, Gay loved her new stepmother dearly. The family moved to Taiwan, as her father continued his Air Force career. Gay graduated from Shadel Park High School in California. She joined the Air Force and was sworn in by her father, a moment that meant a great deal to her. After leaving the Air Force, Gay moved to Reno, where she worked as a blackjack dealer. She began at Fitzgeralds for one year, then worked at Harrah's for the next 13 years.

While working at Harrah's, Gay met a handsome young man, Bob Lawyer, who became her husband of 54 years until his passing in 2024. They were married on March 9, 1970, in Reno. The couple later lived in several states, including Oregon, Montana, Wyoming, Virginia, Utah, Washington, and Oklahoma, before retiring in Sheridan, Montana, in 2008.

Gay was proud to be a homemaker and was a wonderful cook. She also enjoyed crafting, crocheting, knitting, and reading.

Gay is survived by Bob's daughter, Doris (Dan) Brady; daughter-in-law, Tami Lawyer; her sisters, Patty Ludwick and Mona Graham; sister-in-law, Leslie (Carson) Cox; brother-in-law, Jim (Kathy) Lawyer; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her parents; Bob's sons, Robert and Royce Lawyer; and her sister, Ronella Dorenkamp.

After Bob's passing, Gay wanted to remind everyone to cherish the ones they love every day. She missed him more than words can say.

A graveside service will be held at Twin Bridges Cemetery at 11:00 on July 28, 2026.

Memorials may be made to Shodair Children's Hospital, 2755 Colonial Drive, Helena, MT 59601.