Obituary

Gay Nelson passed away at home surrounded by family on February 23, 2021. She was born on April 8, 1940 to Edward and Gladys Jacobs of Acme, WA.

Gay was a lifelong resident of Whatcom County. She graduated Mt. Baker High School in 1958 and married her high school sweetheart, Riggs Nelson, on August 27, 1961. Together they built a life and raised a family on the shores of Lake Whatcom. Gay had a long and satisfying career as a legal secretary. Soon after retiring, Gay started at Washington State University, completing her bachelor’s degree in Social Science in 2009 at 68 years young. Go Cougs! Gay loved sports and was on the board of the WSU Athletic Foundation. She was quite an athlete herself, and always up for adventure; hiking, walking and boating in just about every corner of Whatcom County. Gay finally hung up her water skis at the age of 78. She also ran quite a few 5Ks and half marathons.

Gay was completely devoted to her family. A loving mother, an exceptional grandmother, and the best wife! She and Riggs were the closest of friends. She was his co-pilot and first mate, both literally and figuratively, and she always made sure he looked his finest.

Gay was a woman of deep faith, selfless in her support of those she loved and anyone in need, practicing the 10 Commandments daily. Gay shared herself and her faith generously in all she did.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Riggs Nelson, daughter Roxi Nelson, son Kent (Monaca) Nelson, grandchildren; Jordyn (Aaron) Allie, Larkyn Nelson, Kanyen Nelson, and Marinn Nelson, brother Robert (Jeanne) Jacobs, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and in-laws.

Memorials may be made to the Cougar Athletic Fund and the Whatcom Human Society.