Melinda Gaye Anthony was born on December 21, 1969, in Louisville, Mississippi. She passed away on May 24, 2025, at the young age of 55 in her home in Laurel, Mississippi, surrounded by her adoring family. Affectionately known as "Gaye Gaye" to her family, she was loved unconditionally by them and will be missed infinitely.
Gaye lived a life filled with simple joys. She loved football, golf cart riding, and especially music. Her favorite artists included the Oak Ridge Boys, Alabama, the Gaither Vocal Band, and any and all marching bands, which always brought a sparkle to her eyes. Gaye found great joy in attending church and worshipping Jesus! She had a tender, loving heart and a childlike joy for baby dolls and stuffed animals, especially her treasured Lassie stuffed animal that was never far from reach. Gaye’s laughter, warmth, and gentle spirit touched all who knew her.
She is survived by her three loving sisters: Cindy (Jay) McKay, Tonya (Jimmy) Gardner, and Nikki (Blake) Brown, each of whom will carry her memory with them always. She also leaves behind six cherished nieces and nephews: Paige (Gafford) White, Connor (Mikah) McKay, Jessy Gardner, Ty Gardner, Collins Brown, and Carter Brown, as well as her great-nephew, Ross White.
Gaye was preceded in death by her devoted parents, Thaniel and Dianne Anthony, who lovingly cared for Gaye their entire lives. She was also preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, George and Ola Anthony, Janie Clark, and Jessie Martin.
We will gather for a joint memorial service on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Plainway Baptist Church in Laurel, Mississippi, to celebrate the lives of both Gaye Anthony and her devoted mother, Dianne Anthony, who passed away on January 27, 2024.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Plainway Baptist Church in their honor.