ORCUTT, Gay

ORCUTT

GAY LAREE ORCUTT, beloved wife of the late Albert Daniel Orcutt, passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa, on Monday, December 28, 2020 at the distinguished age of 90 years.

Gay is survived by her sons Ross and Lonnie and niece Mona. Left to honor the life that she lived are her granddaughters Heather, Ash, Callie, Casey and Lillian; grandsons Cory, Daniel, and Lucas; great-grandsons Bishop, Damon, Isaac and Quincy; and her adopted family, the Smiths.

Gay is predeceased by her husband Albert; daughters Shannon and Cindy; son Rick; and sister Elva.

Gay was born on February 3rd, 1930 in Lethbridge, AB to Richard and Norma Erickson. Gay’s fondest childhood memories included playing dress-up with her kittens, riding horses with her friends, branding at the Rowlands and the Mortons and helping her father out on the family farm south of Warner, AB.

In her own words, she “soon strayed from the flock and found an interesting cowboy”. On February 10th, 1948, Gay married Albert Orcutt. In the spring of 1954, Bert and Gay bought their first home and together they built a homestead east of Warner. For 63 years, Gay was the backbone of the family as well as the farming and ranching operations. She took pride in tending to the homestead, raising a family and taking care of animals. Gay was a devoted mother and grandmother, instilling numerous life skills in the house, out in the yard and around the card table.

Gay and Bert enjoyed spending their summers camping and taking many road trips when the farming life allowed. Together, Gay and Bert spent 30 plus winters south in Mesa, Arizona, square dancing, playing cards and making memories with their friends.

Despite her tiny stature, Gay lived a large life. She overcame every challenge that was presented to her. Having strong morals, she believed in modesty and manners but those who knew her well, knew she could be a spitfire when standing up for her beliefs.

Words cannot express the love we have for our Grandma. She was a teacher, a confidant, a chef, a gardener, a craftswoman and so much more. She changed the lives of her grandchildren for the better and never asked for anything in return. She was a true definition of motherly love. Gay will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

Gay will be laid to rest with her husband Bert in Warner Cemetery at a later date.

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com