Georgia C. Gathings

Georgia Carol Gathings, 81, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 3, 1943, to John and Bessie Ingram in North Carolina, the youngest of eight siblings.

Georgia Carol reconnected with the love of her life, Bill Gathings Sr., and they were married on August 31, 1987. Together, they built a beautiful life in Derby, Kansas, where they shared many wonderful years. Their marriage brought together a wonderful blended family of seven children: Andy McFayden, Matt (Ashley) McFayden, Doug (Beverly) McFayden, Candy (Ray) Buffington, Bill Gathings Jr., Gena (Jim) Everett, and Michael.

To her family, Georgia Carol was more than just a mother and grandmother—she was Nuna. A title given to her by her grandbabies, it became a name that symbolized love, warmth, and support. She had a way of making everyone feel at home, whether through a home-cooked meal, a comforting hug, or the stories she told with that unmistakable sparkle in her eye. She made every moment special, turning the simple things in life into memories we will cherish forever.

Georgia Carol’s faith was the foundation of her life, and she lived it in everything she did. She never met a stranger, never turned away someone in need, and always led with kindness. She believed in the power of family, the importance of laughter, and the strength found in love. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, and if you were lucky enough to sit at her table, you know that you left feeling both full and loved.

She is survived by her husband, Bill; her seven children; her 14 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life; and countless other relatives and dear friends who were blessed to know her.

While our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in knowing that her love and legacy will live on in all of us. Her laughter, her wisdom, and her faith will guide us as we carry her memory forward.

A Celebration of Life will take place at the Cozine Life Events Center on Friday, March 28, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Remarks will begin at 11:00 am.  

Flowers are welcome, but the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to the WSU Tech Foundation to provide scholarships to students pursuing technical careers. Contributions may be made online at wsutech.edu/Gathings or sent to:

WSU Tech Foundation
Attn: Georgia Gathings Memorial Fund
4004 N. Webb Rd.
Wichita, KS 67226

Rest easy, sweet Georgia Carol. You will always be with us.