Billie “Gay” Keys

Billie “Gay” Keys was born on January 15, 1947, in Monroe, Louisiana, and passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 7, 2025.

Raised in rural Calhoun, Louisiana, and surrounded by extended family, Gay cherished growing up in the country. Some of her fondest memories were spending time with her cousins after Sunday church—sharing meals, playing basketball, and simply being together.

Gay was strong-willed, hardworking, and pragmatic. She valued independence, took care of herself, and believed in showing up and doing the work. She was consistent, caring, and always involved—willing to lend a hand or an ear, no matter how challenging the task.

She was raised to believe that everyone is equal, that honesty matters, that being on time and being polite are forms of respect, and that no one is better than anyone else.

Gay was the first in her family to attend college, beginning her studies in sociology at Northeastern Louisiana College and later completing her degree at the University of Houston, where she graduated summa cum laude. She built a long professional career, retiring after 30 years with ExxonMobil as a paralegal, and continued working in retirement as a loan officer and then as a real estate agent.

An avid runner and lifelong traveler, Gay explored much of the world, including hiking Machu Picchu. She was active in her Second Baptist Church community and participated regularly in Bible study.

In her community, Gay gave her time to causes she believed in. She served on the board of her local HOA and led projects to beautify her neighborhood, including the creation of wildflower spaces.

Above all, Gay was a constant and caring presence as a mother, Nana, and great-grandmother. She was Nana to Kayla Ryan Keys-Bury, Ethan Ryan Keys, Bella Renee Taheran, and Olivia Faith Keys, and a proud great-grandmother to Waylon James.

She was a keeper of family traditions, and holidays were never complete without one of her Mississippi Mud Pies or Lemon Icebox Pies.

Her life was an example of strength, love, steadiness, and curiosity for the world. She will be greatly missed.