Gay Lynn Jenkins Forman was born on June 28, 1957, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Henry Jenkins, Sr. and Dorothy Jenkins. She was the sixth of eight children, growing up surrounded by the warmth and laughter of a large and loving family.

Gay accepted Christ at an early age and lived a life rooted in faith and compassion. She was a devoted member of Eastland Street Baptist Church, and before relocating to Texas, faithfully served at First Emmanuel Baptist Church in New Orleans. Her quiet strength and unwavering belief in God guided her through every chapter of her life. Educated in the Orleans Parish School System, Gay graduated from McDonogh 35 Senior High School, where she built lifelong friendships and cherished memories.

Gay was a devoted mother and grandmother, known for her kindness, humor, strong faith, and boundless love for her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the joy of her heart.

To her children and loved ones, Friday nights in New Orleans were among their most cherished memories. When Tara and Jerome were growing up, Gay made even the simplest moments feel special. Every Friday evening meant gathering around the table with family and friends, enjoying Pizza Hut dinners, laughter, and stories from the week. What mattered most wasn't the food, it was the love, the laughter, and the sense of togetherness she created. Her warmth filled every room, and she had a beautiful way of turning ordinary evenings into lifelong memories.

She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones and made it her mission to ensure her grandchildren had the best life possible. Gay spoke with her siblings daily, treasuring their conversations and the closeness they shared. Throughout her career with Volunteers of America (VOA) in New Orleans, she extended her caring spirit beyond her home, touching countless lives through her compassion and dedication.

In 2005, following Hurricane Katrina, Gay relocated to Dallas, Texas, where she built a new life while keeping her New Orleans roots close to her heart. She continued her devoted role as a grandmother, often visiting her grandchildren's schools to check in, offer encouragement, and make sure they had everything they needed. In Dallas, Gay found a kindred spirit in Eulith "Gene" Eaden, a dear friend who became like family. The two were inseparable, sharing laughter, adventures, and a friendship that brought joy to everyone around them.

Gay departed this life peacefully on October 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Dorothy Jenkins; and her siblings Althea Dixon (Norman Sr.), Cleveland Powell, and Joanell Caliste (Willie).

She leaves to cherish her memory: her children, Tara Learson and Jerome Learson Jr. (Wyneé); her adoring grandchildren, Tierra Cordova, Chance Learson, Alyssa Williams, Matthew Williams, and Bryson Davis; her siblings, Cynthia Reed (Leroy), Henry Jenkins Jr. (Linda), Marsha Larkins (Washington), and Lester Jenkins; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family; and countless friends who loved her dearly.

To know Gay was to love her; her radiant smile, generous heart, and joyful spirit will live on forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.