Betty Fay Gaines, lovingly known as Fay to most and Mamaw to those who held her closest, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025, in Chattanooga, TN. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, James "Jim" Gaines, and leaves behind a family and community who cherished her deeply.

Born August 9, 1945, Fay was the heart of her family, a woman whose love knew no limits. She was the proud mother of Don (Sheri) Handley, Terri Handley, and Kimberly (Galen) Handley Roberts. She was a loving grandmother to Brandon (Jennifer), Kyven, Codi (Kasey), Cameron, Brittney, and Corey. Her love extended to her great-grandchildren Braydon and Jacob, Brandon Jr. and Heaven, Lyra, Georgia, and Lizzie May. She also shared a special bond with her niece, Tonya (Chuck) Goins, and her family.

Fay also leaves behind her dear friend, Sydney Edwards, with whom she shared a lifelong friendship that spanned decades. From their days working together to the many years that followed, their bond remained unbreakable, filled with laughter, memories, and unwavering support.

To know Fay was to know the purest form of love - she embodied Agape in every sense of the word. She would give the clothes off her back just to bring a smile to someone's face and never expected anything in return. If you called, she answered. If you needed to talk, she was all ears. If you needed a friend, she was your co-pilot for any adventure. Her support was unwavering, her kindness boundless. She made everyone feel safe, seen, and heard - never judged, only loved.

Her presence was warmth, her spirit was light. From the moment you met her, you felt it always and forever. That was her promise, her legacy. She was the sunshine that greeted you each morning and the moonlight that guided you through the night.

In accordance with her wishes, Fay will be cremated. A gathering to celebrate her life will be held at a later date, where family and friends can come together, share memories, and honor the love and light she brought into the world. Details will be announced once plans are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that acts of kindness be done in her memory - just as she would have done for anyone, anytime, without hesitation.

* Agape: the highest form of love - selfless, unconditional, and sacrificial love, often used to describe God's love for humanity and the love believers are called to have for one another.