Gay Avis Rector McNeely

Gay Avis Rector McNeely, 77, died Friday, November 19, 2010 following a period of declining health. She was born in Burke County on July 20, 1933 and was a daughter of the late Charlie and Artie Stamey Rector. In addition to her parents, Mrs. McNeely was preceded in death by a son, Tracy James McNeely, and by a brother-in-law, Dean Clark.She graduated from Drexel High School in 1951 and was also a graduate of Clevenger Business School in Hickory. A devoted wife, mother, and sister, Gay loved traveling especially the yearly trip to the beach with her family. Family gatherings and holidays were always made special by her home cooking. She was a member of Drexel First Baptist Church.She is survived by her husband, J. B. McNeely of the home; her daughter, Jamie McNeely of Morganton; a sister, Nancy Rector Clark; and a nephew, Shane Clark both of Morganton.The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 22, 2010, at Drexel First Baptist Church with Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. The committal service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Monday at Drexel Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Drexel First Baptist Church, Drive Thru Building Fund, PO Box 308, Drexel, NC 28619. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.