Ralph "Randy" Alco Gay, III, cherished husband, son, brother, and friend, passed away on April 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. Randy's journey began in Valdosta, GA, where he was born to Ralph A. Gay, Jr. and Sharon Bembry Gay, on March 12, 1967, the first chapter of a life overflowing with love and cherished memories.

From his earliest years, Randy's love for Jesus bloomed and his soul resonated with the hymns, singing them with unmatched enthusiasm.  Alongside his father, Ralph, Randy embraced the values of hard work and dedication, immersing himself in the family's mobile home business, Southern Country Mobile Homes in Valdosta, GA. Even as a child, Randy's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly, evidenced by his early success in sales at the tender age of five. He loved to tell how he sold his first mobile home at that age.

Randy was an avid athlete and loved both baseball and football. He won the National Punt Pass and Kick contest at the age of 11 and went on to play quarterback for Lowndes High School. He secured a full football scholarship at Georgia Tech. Unfortunately, Randy suffered a tragic car accident in the summer of 1985 and was unable to continue to play football. In 1990, he graduated from Valdosta State College with a Bachelor of Science in Education.

As time passed, Randy returned to working by his father's side, making lasting memories and enduring friendships. Together, they established and ran a full-service gas station in Jasper, Florida, and it's a good thing they did, as that's where he met his bride-to-be, Melanie.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Randy found purpose and joy in the quiet beauty of the family farm in Hamilton County, FL, where he tended to the needs of their cattle with care and devotion. His love for animals mirrored the warmth and compassion he showed to all who crossed his path, a testament to the kindness that defined his character.

He is survived by his wife, Melanie Shortt Gay; his mother, Sharon Bembry Gay; his sister, Pam Kovach (David); nieces, nephews and other beloved family members.

A funeral service to honor Randy's life will be held on Tuesday, April 30, at 11:00 a.m. at Bright Pond Baptist Church in Jasper, FL, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow the service at Evergreen Cemetery in Jasper, FL.