She grew up in northeast Arkansas about an hour north of Memphis.  She began taking piano lessons at the age of 7. She earned BM, MM, and DMA degrees. Gay has sung in high school, university, and community choirs, and has accompanied for many choirs and instrumental ensembles. She has worked as the organist in several churches, and most recently was organist and choir director at Church of the Good Shepherd in Town and Country. Gay likes to read, watch old movies, and travel in addition to her many musical adventures.

Gay's husband Jared is a well-known composer particularly in the areas of symphonic band and percussion music. In addition to his composing, he has been an active clinician, conductor, and music adjudicator.  Jared hails from the Chicago suburbs, Prospect Heights to be exact. He began to play the drums as a youngster. Jared holds BS, BM, MM, and DM degrees. Upon completion of his doctorate he began a long career at Arkansas State University. Retirement from teaching in 1999 has allowed Jared to do things he likes to do: writing music and doing landscaping. Jared has an adult daughter and son from his first marriage and four granddaughters.

Gay and Jared’s daughter Katy will be 12 in August.  Katy was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas and from an early age was surrounded by music. She plays piano, sings, and is taking percussion lessons.  Katy will be in the 7th grade at Zion Lutheran School in St. Charles County. 

Completing their family is Abby the Golden Retriever.  She is four years old and came to the family from Dirk's Fund as a rescued dog.  She is a sweet, calm dog who loves to be petted.

You can reach Gay at music@faithdesperes.org.